The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idris, has called on media professionals in Northern Nigeria to uphold ethical, balanced, and responsible journalism, adding that the region’s future will be shaped not only by development projects but also by the stories told about its people and its potential.
Idris made the call while delivering the keynote address at the inaugural Arewa Media Summit in Kano on July 6, 2026, where he affirmed that: “The future of Northern Nigeria will not be determined only by the quality of our roads, our farms, or our industries. It will also be shaped by the quality of our ideas and the stories we tell about ourselves.”
He said the media remains one of the most powerful forces for shaping public opinion, attracting investment, preserving culture, strengthening democracy, and promoting national unity. “The theme of this Summit, ‘Government-Citizen Accord: Accountability, Responsibility and Ethical Media Practice, reminds us that democracy works best when government is accountable, citizens participate responsibly, and the media performs its constitutional role with professionalism, fairness, and integrity. These are partners in building a peaceful, prosperous and united Nigeria,” he said.
The Minister noted that while digital technology has created new opportunities for communication and economic growth, it has also increased the spread of misinformation and disinformation. “Falsehood often travels faster than truth. That is why professional journalism has never been more important. Credible journalism must continue to stand for accuracy, fairness, verification, and responsibility,” he stated.
Idris then reaffirmed President Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to press freedom and constructive engagement with the media, noting that “We remain committed to upholding press freedom as a pillar of democracy and to creating an enabling environment where journalists can carry out their duties professionally. Democracy flourishes when citizens are well informed, and the media performs its work.”
