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Tag: Idris

  • Tinubu’s reforms yielding positive results – Idris

    Tinubu’s reforms yielding positive results – Idris

    The Federal Government has declared that the economic reforms instituted by President Bola Tinubu, specifically the removal of petrol subsidy, foreign exchange unification and the 2026 tax laws, are yielding positive results, citing a resurgence in foreign investment and the successful disbursement of N174 billion in student loans.

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, spoke on Saturday while delivering the 34th Convocation Lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, titled “Youth and Nation Building: Navigating Opportunities in an Era of National Reforms”.

    Idris stated that the administration’s bold and ambitious reforms were necessary to reset the economic landscape and end the cycle of doing the same thing repeatedly while expecting different results noting that contrary to fears of an exodus, multinational corporations are renewing their interest in the Nigerian market.

    “The renewed attention of domestic and foreign investors, occasioned by these reforms, is opening up opportunities in every sector of the economy.

    “Many firms that had previously considered exiting the Nigerian market are now making a U-turn, given the scale and steadiness of the stability we have seen in the last 18 months. Serious investors are paying attention and responding positively,” Idris said.

    He highlighted that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s monthly survey of business confidence has recorded 13 consecutive months of expansion while citing a recent visit by Shell Plc’s CEO, Mr. Wael Sawan, who attested to the improved investment climate, stating that the new stability propelled the oil giant to invest for the long term.

    Addressing the controversial tax laws, which took effect on January 1, 2026, Idris dismissed reports of negative impact as misinformation and scare-mongering.

    “In recent weeks, many salary earners have received higher take-home pay following implementation,. The goal was never to take more from Nigerians but to simplify taxation and make it fairer and more transparent” he asserted, adding that the objective was to simplify taxation rather than overburden citizens.

    On the impact of these reforms on the education sector, the Minister revealed that the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has received nearly 1.5 million applications since its launch in May 2024.

    “Over ₦174 billion has so far been disbursed as tuition fees and monthly upkeep allowances to more than 900,000 beneficiaries,” Idris confirmed, describing the scheme as incontrovertible proof of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Read Also: 2027: Tinubu will surprise the naysayers in north – Ganduje

    The Minister also provided sobering demographic projections, noting that within 25 years, Nigeria will become the world’s third most populous country with 400 million people, surpassing the United States.

     He challenged the graduating students to reject cynicism regarding government programmes, citing the success of the 3 Million Technical Talents (3MTT) programme and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation as evidence of available opportunities.

    “Opportunities do not automatically transform lives unless they are sought, seized, and harnessed,. They are merely potential in raw form and of little use of left untapped. It is possible for affordable credit, student loans or technical and vocational programmes to exist and yet but to benefit, either due to lack of awareness or because you have given in to the cynical voice that says you don’t bother about such opportunities,” he warned.

    Idris urged the graduates to engage with the ongoing reforms and leverage technology for empowerment rather than distraction.

  • Nigeria–Brazil BASA to deepen ties, says Idris

    Nigeria–Brazil BASA to deepen ties, says Idris

    Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) signed between Nigeria and Brazil as a significant breakthrough that will reconnect the two countries economically, socially, and culturally.

    Speaking to journalists in Brasília on Monday after the signing ceremony witnessed by President Bola Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Idris said the agreement was one of five memoranda of understanding reached during the state visit, stressing that it represented more than aviation.

    “The 350 years of slavery between Africa and Brazil are being looked at again by the two leaders. And one way of looking at it is to ensure there is now a reconnection, economic, financial, social, cultural, whichever sphere. I think this is the best way to really go past what has happened during the period of slavery,” the minister explained.

    He noted that President Tinubu’s fourth meeting with President Lula in just over a year underscored the growing partnership between the two nations, which he said would also benefit Africa as a whole.

    “Once President Bola Tinubu travels out of this country, he’s not just speaking for Nigeria, he’s also speaking for the whole of Africa. Nigeria is indeed a leader; it is also a global leader. And so when the president of Nigeria speaks, he’s also speaking on behalf of the African continent,” Idris stated.

    The minister disclosed that immediate “quick wins” from the agreement were already being realised, with a symbolic flight planned from Brazil to Abuja at midnight on Tuesday.

    He pointed out that the direct link would reduce travel time between the two countries from more than 24 hours through European routes to about seven hours.

    “Once this becomes commercially viable, it will not just enhance trade between the two countries, it will also improve the cultural and social cooperation that already exists,” he added.

    Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, confirmed that his airline had been designated to operate the route under the BASA, describing it as “a milestone” facilitated by President Tinubu’s administration.

    “The Bilateral Air Services Agreement has been signed between both countries, Brazil and Nigeria. And I’m sure you heard when President Lula of Brazil said that Nigeria’s largest carrier, Air Peace, has been designated to implement this BASA,” he said.

    Onyema announced that commercial operations would commence by late November into December 2025, starting with three flights a week.

    “We cannot start daily flights for now, but we want to start with three weekly flights. As we go on, we develop the route, and we’re going to increase the frequency. We told the Brazilians that we want to go to Lagos, Rio, São Paulo and back to Lagos,” he explained.

    Read Also: CAS strengthens Nigeria–Brazil defence partnership

    The Air Peace boss emphasised that aviation would catalyse unlocking the economic potential of both nations.

    “The Brazilian economy is the largest in Latin America. The Nigerian economy is the largest in Africa. They need to tap into this. But without aviation, it’s very, very difficult for some of these things to be actualised,” Onyema said.

    Idris concluded that the bilateral deals signed during the state visit—including those covering aviation, energy, and economic cooperation—would advance reforms in both nations and cement a renewed partnership.

    “We feel this is significant. At a period that Nigeria is going through far-reaching reforms, the Brazilian authorities are also carrying out theirs. All this is aimed at repositioning the two countries financially, culturally, and socially for the benefit of both nations,” he said.

  • ‘Tinubu is an ardent supporter of media, committed to press freedom’ – Idris

    ‘Tinubu is an ardent supporter of media, committed to press freedom’ – Idris

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering support for the Nigerian media, describing the President as a firm believer in the vital role of the press in national development.

    Speaking on Tuesday at the Blueprint Newspaper Annual Lecture, Impact Series, and Awards held in Abuja, Idris said President Tinubu recognises the media as a cornerstone of democracy and has given him the free hand to perform his duties professionally and independently.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is an ardent supporter of the media. He knows that the media is very crucial in nation-building, and he has told me severally that I should go and do my job as best as I deem fit, being a professional myself,” the Minister said.

    The event, themed “Exploring Potentials of Livestock Exports in Nigeria,” brought together stakeholders from the media, public and private sectors.

    Idris reassured media practitioners that under Tinubu’s leadership, there would be no clampdown on press freedom.

    “President Tinubu will not in any way, form, or shape, stifle or stand in the way of the progress or the work of the media in this country,” he stressed.

    He, however, urged media professionals to exercise their freedom responsibly by striking a balance between holding leaders accountable and promoting unity and stability.

    “All of us media professionals have to come together to walk this delicate path and ensure that society is being kept together while also holding leaders and government to account,” he added.

    The Minister emphasised that the survival and growth of Nigeria’s democracy depends significantly on a vibrant, responsible, and independent media landscape.

    “In doing that job, you have an enormous responsibility to hold government and leaders to account, but even as you do that, you also have to know that because of your vantage position and the critical role you play, you can also help, if you don’t take care, your actions may be injurious to society,” he said, adding that it was important for the media to exercise discernment in distinguishing between what is good and bad, to avoid creating division or destabilizing the country.

    He noted that despite challenges within the information ecosystem, there remains a ray of hope, as the media continues to thrive and demonstrate resilience.

    Idris reiterated that President Tinubu remains a committed champion of press freedom and would never seek to stifle the media in any way.

    The Minister also clarified that he is no longer the Chairman of Blueprint Newspapers, a position he relinquished upon his appointment. 

    “I am no longer the chairman of Blueprint Newspaper. I’m also an invitee to this occasion. I know that I was in the past, at the forefront of organising this event for Blueprint, especially since its inception 14 years ago. I must thank those who were invited to join me in May of 2005, to contemplate the idea of the Blueprint Newspaper: Malam Ibrahim Sheme, Malam Salisu Umar, the Managing Director, Hajia Zainab Okino, chairman Editorial Board, and all members of the Blueprint Newspaper. 

    “Thank you for keeping the flag flying. I haven’t visited that office in about a year now, but I guess I will. I wanted to see whether they would indeed keep this flag flying. I am proud and happy that what we started has continued to flourish,” he said.

    The Minister commended the awardees and stated that their selection was solely the judgment of the newspaper and was not influenced by any external interests.

    Dignitaries at the event include His Excellency Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Senator Barau Jibrin, Deputy Senate President; Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake; Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha; the Etsu Nupe, His Royal Highness Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar; and the Keynote Speaker of the event, Prof. Attahiru Jega, amongst others.

  • Nigerians must reclaim ownership of Armed Forces – Minister Idris

    Nigerians must reclaim ownership of Armed Forces – Minister Idris

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on Nigerians to reclaim a sense of ownership of the Armed Forces, urging citizens to view the military as a vital part of the national family.

    Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the maiden Defence Headquarters (DHQ) Civil-Military Relations Conference in Abuja, Idris stressed the importance of changing public perception of the military.

    According to him, Nigerians must begin to see the military not as an “occupying force” but as “a force for good, for protection, and for progress.”

    The conference, themed “Winning Hearts and Minds: Non-Kinetic Approaches to National Security,” focused on strengthening collaboration between civilians and the military in tackling national security challenges.

    Idris stressed that the effectiveness and efficiency depend of the Nigerian Armed Forces depends on the full ownership and participation of all Nigerian.

    According to the minister, the Nigerian military is not a foreign entity, rather an integral part of our national family that most be proudly owned and respected by the citizens it serves.

    He lamented that due to the past involvement of military in governance, Nigerians had developed negative perceptions about the military, but after several years of civilian rule that perceptions must change.

    Read Also: Nigeria on path of economic renewal, global respect – Idris

    Idris said: “The reality we face today is uncomfortable but undeniable: a trust deficit exists between the military and many segments of the Nigerian population. 

    Civilians, in some quarters, perceive the Armed Forces not as partners in peace, but as a force of aggression, brutal, offensive, and distant. 

    “This perception, whether based on history, misinformation, or isolated incidents, poses a grave threat to national unity and stability. 

    “Yet, let us remember that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are not a foreign entity. They are not a detached machinery. They are a national institution, owned, funded, and mandated by the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on behalf of every Nigerian citizen. In truth, the Armed Forces belong to the people.

    “Therefore, it is time for our people to reclaim that ownership It is time for Nigerians to see the military as an integral part of our national family not an occupying force, but a force for good, for protection, and for progress.”

    The minister the conference marked a crucial step toward achieving that vision by focusing on non-kinetic strategies, dialogue, community engagement, media sensitisation, humanitarian collaboration.

    He reaffirmed that that national security is not only about firepower, but also about trust, empathy, and partnership. 

    Idris urged the media and other critical stakeholders to champion the efforts of rebranding the image of the Nigerian military as a force that belongs to the people and committed to protecting the country to achieve desired peace and economic development.

    He said: “As the Minister of Information and National Orientation, I see an enormous role for the media and public communication in this mission.

    “We must be deliberate in reshaping the public narrative about our Armed Forces. We must amplify stories of sacrifice, of community service, of lives saved and dignity restored. We must challenge misinformation and foster responsible reporting.

    “Moreover, we must build stronger bridges of interaction through town halls, joint projects, civic education, and institutional frameworks that keep the military close to the heartbeat of the nation. 

    “Let me assure you that the Federal Ministry of Information stands ready to work hand in hand with the Defence Headquarters, civil society, and the media to implement the outcomes of this conference. 

    “Together, we will shape a new chapter in Civil-Military Relations one rooted in mutual respect, transparency, and shared purpose.”

    The minster commended the DHQ for organising the conference, which he described as “timely but essential.’

    “I commend the leadership of our Armed Forces for recognising the urgent need to bridge the widening gap between the military and the civilians they are sworn to protect,” he said.  

  • History will judge Tinubu favourably – Idris

    History will judge Tinubu favourably – Idris

    …says Nigeria has crossed rubicon 

    The country has crossed the rubicon and the pains are gradually easing, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris said on Thursday.

    Idris said the current reduction of prices of food and stability in exchange are proof that the reforms under the President Bola Tinubu are yielding positive results. 

    The minister spoke during the Ministerial Press Briefing which had the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo given scorecards of their stewardship.

    Also in attendance include: Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser Information and Strategy to the president; Mr. Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Public Communication and Orientation..

    Idris assured Nigerians that President Tinubu is steering the affairs of Nigeria with the utmost fear of God and a deep conviction that history will judge his administration favourably.

    The minister pointed out that a nation thrives when its leaders govern with a sense of divine responsibility. 

    He also noted that from history meaningful reforms are never easy, as they require sacrifice, resilience, and a commitment to long-term progress.

    Idris therefore, appealed to religious leaders to use the sacred period of Ramadan and Lent to offer prayers for the peace, security, and progress of the country. 

    Read Also: Lula invites Tinubu to Brazil

    He said: “Let me say that we have crossed the Rubicon, and the pains are gradually easing as the positive impact of these reforms begins to manifest. Already, we are witnessing a marked reduction in food prices, stability in exchange rates, and a gradual decline in the cost of petroleum products, which are clear indicators that the reforms are yielding positive results.

    “Let me say that we have crossed the Rubicon, and the pains are gradually easing as the positive impact of these reforms begins to manifest. Already, we are witnessing a marked reduction in food prices, stability in exchange rates, and a gradual decline in the cost of petroleum products, which are clear indicators that the reforms are yielding positive results.

    “Our country stands at a critical juncture as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu implements bold and transformative reforms to lay the foundation for a new Nigeria. Across the world, history has shown that meaningful reforms are never easy; they demand sacrifice, resilience, and a commitment to long-term progress. The initial pains that often accompany these changes are the necessary price for a more stable and prosperous future.

    “I want to sincerely appreciate Nigerians for their patience, perseverance, and unwavering belief in the President’s vision,” he said.

    “I want to urge our Muslim and Christian leaders, particularly during this period of fasting and reflection, to continue to pray for Nigeria’s success. With unity, faith, and collective effort, we will emerge stronger, more resilient, and positioned for lasting prosperity,” he said. 

  • Nigeria to participate in France Business Forum to showcase economic progress – Idris

    Nigeria to participate in France Business Forum to showcase economic progress – Idris

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has announced that Nigeria has accepted an invitation to attend the upcoming France Business Forum in Paris.

    Idris stated that the country will leverage the forum to promote investment opportunities and highlight the significant economic progress achieved under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    Speaking on Friday during a meeting with the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Marc Fonbaustier, the minister emphasized that Tinubu’s economic reforms are yielding positive results. 

    He pointed to the stabilization of the Naira and a reduction in food prices as key indicators of progress.

    The statement was issued by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim.

    He added, “We will use the platform of the France-Nigeria Business Forum to take the message of consolidation that the President is desirous to give us this year. This year, 2025, is the year of economic and social consolidation of the Nigerian nation as promised by Mr. President. As you have heard severally, the economy is beginning to turn the corner. Food prices that were hitherto higher are beginning to come down. 

    “The exchange rate is beginning to show signs of stability and all the reform agenda of Mr. President that he has embarked upon are beginning to show signs that they are really getting the desired attention and that by God’s grace, we will reach our destination,” he said.

    The Minister noted that while socio-economic reforms often come with initial challenges, President Tinubu’s steadfast commitment has significantly shortened this difficult period, leading to the emergence of tangible economic successes.

    “Every country that has embarked on any kind of social and economic reform will go through some turbulence and I think that our own incubation period has been shortened by the kind of pragmatism, the focus, determination and conviction that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has that this reform will indeed take Nigeria on the path of sustainable prosperity,” he said.

    Read Also: ESG Forum launches mentorship initiative for future sustainability leaders

    The Minister described France as a key ally of Nigeria and called on the French government to support President Tinubu’s ongoing reform efforts to further strengthen economic and bilateral relations.

    He also praised French President Emmanuel Macron for conferring President Tinubu with the rare honour of a state visit in November last year, noting that such a gesture is uncommon for a visiting Head of State.

    The minister assured the visiting envoy that Nigeria remains committed to fully implementing all Memoranda of Understanding signed with the French government during President Tinubu’s visit to France.

    Idris also commended Ambassador Fonbaustier for his dedicated efforts in strengthening the ties between Nigeria and France within the short period he was posted to Nigeria. 

    In his remarks, Ambassador Fonbaustier stated that his visit to the Minister was aimed at developing a roadmap for implementing the agreements reached between Presidents Macron and Tinubu during the latter’s visit to France last year.

    He pledged the support of the French government for the ministry to enhance the capability and technology in public communication.

    “We have to ensure that there is a practical follow up of the State Visit of President Bola Tinubu in Paris in November. The two presidents have set up together an ambitious roadmap so that we can scale up the partnership and in that regard, communication and information are crucial and where France can provide hopefully some support, capabilities and know-how,” he said.

    Ambassador Fonbaustier described the Minister as a game changer in Nigeria’s public communication and emphasized that his profile and strategic role in the Tinubu administration make him the ideal figure to promote Nigeria’s vast economic potential and investment opportunities to the business leaders from France, who are set to convene in Paris on April 10, 2025, for the France-Business Forum.

  • Tinubu’s assent to bill indication of bold statement of intent – Idris

    Tinubu’s assent to bill indication of bold statement of intent – Idris

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Tuesday said signing of the 2025 budget into law shows the administration’s determination to develop the country. 

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday assented to the N54.2 trillion budget, following the passage by the National Assembly. 

    Idris, who spoke at the resumption of the Ministerial Press Briefing, said the budget remains a bold statement of intent.

    The Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole took turns to brief on her activities. 

    Idris said: “The signing of the N54.2 trillion budget by President Bola Tinubu, the largest in Nigeria’s history, testifies to the administration’s commitment to economic growth, national security, infrastructure development, and human capital advancement.

    “This year, 2025, is set to be the year of consolidation – a year where all the transformative reforms initiated by President Tinubu’s administration begin to bear tangible fruits in the lives of Nigerians. Already, we are witnessing a gradual reduction in the prices of foodstuffs, which is bringing much-needed relief to the people.

    “The 2025 budget is not just a financial document; it is a bold statement of intent – a roadmap for economic resilience, social stability, and national progress. 

    Read Also: JUST IN: Minister of Information Idris loses mother-in-law

    “The budget has demonstrated a renewed focus on security, infrastructure, education, health, solid minerals, agriculture, and other key areas that have a direct impact on the well-being and socio-economic development of the country.”

    The Minister also noted the media remains a vital pillar in the country’s democracy.

    Idris explained that democracy thrived on informed discourse, constructive engagement and a shared commitment to national progress.

    He said this explained why Tinubu directed all his Ministers to take turns to give account of their stewardship. 

  • Ministerial press briefing commences next week – Idris

    Ministerial press briefing commences next week – Idris

    Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has disclosed plans to kick start the periodic ministerial briefing next week ahead of the 2nd year of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. 

    The second year, Idris said, is themed year of consolidation of President Tinubu’s reforms. 

    The briefing, he therefore, said is meant to keep Nigerians informed about government policies and programmes. 

    He said the briefing will allow Nigerians the opportunity to interrogate the activities of the minister. 

    He stressed that it is in line with the president’s directive that all ministers must give account of what they do periodically.

    He said attention would be on the government activities from January 2025 till date. 

    He said: “President Tinubu is determined to ensure that his administration engages and communicates robustly, and this Ministerial Briefing Series is one of the measures he has directed to achieve this goal. 

    “In 2024, we hosted 25 Ministers at these briefings and reached millions of people in Nigeria and abroad on traditional and digital media platforms.

    Read Also: Tinubu celebrates NCDC DG, Olajide Idris, at 70

    “These briefings are an opportunity to highlight and explain government policies, programs, and actions; to simplify and contextualise these for the benefit of all citizens, interest groups, and stakeholders at large; while also decisively tackling misinformation and disinformation. 

    “Over the next three months, as we approach the second anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration, we will bring Honorable Ministers to this platform, on a weekly basis. 

    “This year 2025 is a year of consolidation, a year for building on the gains we have seen in the first 19 months of the administration.”

    Details shortly… 

  • FG commits more resources to fight against terrorism, banditry, says Idris

    FG commits more resources to fight against terrorism, banditry, says Idris

    The minister of information and national orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Thursday, October 3, said the current administration of President Bola Tinubu has committed more resources to tackling insecurity in the country.

    Idris said it is proof of the administration’s commitment to containing the menace.

    The minister spoke in Abuja at the first international conference organized by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) themed “Interrogating the Root Cause of Violence in the Sahel and Its Impact on Nigeria’s Territorial Integrity.”

    Read Also: Tinubu: We have eliminated 300 Boko Haram, other banditry groups’ commanders

    He acknowledged that the Sahel region has become a vortex of instability, violence, terrorism, organised crime, drug trafficking, smuggling of weapons, and violent extremism with a spillover effect on Nigeria due to the country’s porous borders with the region.

    “Nigeria shares a long and porous border with several Sahelian countries caught up in conflict, making us vulnerable to the spillover effects of the conflict. This not only threatens our security but also challenges our capacity to maintain effective control over our borders.

    “Several scholars and experts had earlier attributed these challenges to socioeconomic marginalization, weak governance structures, environmental degradation and climate change, transnational organized crime, and illegal trafficking in arms among others but the spillover effect of these conflicts is taking its toll on our economy, internal security and the socio-economic well-being of our people,” he said.

    Other dignitaries present were the Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa; the Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Umar Dikko Radda; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, and the Minister of Steel Development, Alhaji Shuaibu Abubakar.

  • Audience measurement system to attract huge investment into media – Idris

    Audience measurement system to attract huge investment into media – Idris

    The minister of information and culture, Mohammed Idris has said that the newly launched first scientific-based audience measurement system will attract greater investment into the media sector.

    Idris, who did the official launch on Thursday, June 6, in Abuja, said the system will also create employment opportunities.

    He said it would also enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a market with robust and trustworthy media analytics.

    Idris noted that the system empowers broadcasters to understand and respond to the dynamic nature of media consumers, providing valuable perception into their viewing habits, content preferences etc.

     He said: “I am confident that a transparent and reliable audience measurement system will attract greater investment into creating an enhanced reputation as a market with robust and trustworthy media analytics.

    “With this scientific-based system, advertisers can have greater confidence in the accuracy of viewership numbers, leading to more strategic and impactful advertising campaigns in Nigeria. Broadcasters will also benefit from clear insights into audience preferences, which will help in enhancing the quality and relevance of their programming. This will ultimately lead to a more engaged and satisfied audience.

    He also added: “I am also informed that in its full operation, the Audience Measurement System is projected to directly employ up to 500 Nigerians and 2,500 people indirectly.”

     “This project will jumpstart the repositioning and financial re-birth of Nigeria’s broadcasting industry and better prepare it for the digital era as the Federal Government is still on track towards the implementation of the Digital Switch Over. 

    He added: “The introduction of this sophisticated audience measurement system is a groundbreaking achievement that aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a more prosperous and technologically advanced Nigeria.

    “This system will serve as a cornerstone for reliable data, by providing accurate and comprehensive insights into media consumption patterns across various demography.

     “This system we are launching today holds immense importance in ensuring that our broadcasting endeavours are not only impactful but also reflective of the diverse preferences and needs of our audience. It is a tool that empowers us to understand and respond to the dynamic nature of our media consumers, providing valuable perception into their viewing habits, content preferences, and engagement patterns. It is therefore gratifying to note that this project, which started in 2020, has finally come to fruition.”

    He explained that the introduction of the system will also change the old order which was never beneficial to the Station Owners, Content Producers, and artists.

    “The introduction of the system becomes very necessary because our current Audience Measurement still uses the age-old Diary Method (pen and paper) for collecting data on TV Viewership and Radio Listenership, which does not reflect the true picture of what and how many people are watching or listening to particular content.

    “Similarly, Station Owners, Content Producers, Artists, essentially the entire supply ecosystem, were not benefiting in many ways; more importantly, they were neither motivated nor challenged to produce more and better content that caters to the ‘demand’, as the measure of who likes it, what they like, how much they like, etc. This has clearly stunted the growth of the entire entertainment and media ecosystem in Nigeria.”

     The minister also expressed his displeasure on the country’s earnings from television advertising in the continent despite having the largest audience.

    Read Also: Tugar, Idris present scorecard

    Idris said: “It is disheartening to note that in spite of having more than three times the eyeballs in South Africa, Nigeria’s television advertising market revenue is low compared to that of South Africa, and Kenya; as we’re third on the continent. It is therefore incumbent on us to reverse the trend and adopt the system that will ensure that advertising spend in Nigeria grows exponentially in the next couple of years.

    “Let me restate here, the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) to developing the entire media landscape in Nigeria as amply demonstrated in his recent directive to the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and the Bank of Industry to extend financial facilities to the media industry at a single digit interest rate. I will therefore enjoin the media owners to develop bankable proposals and take advantage of this offer.

    “In conclusion, as we move forward, let us harness the power of this system to create a more vibrant, responsive, and successful media landscape in Nigeria. Together, we can achieve a media environment that not only meets the expectations of our audiences but also sets new benchmarks for excellence.

    “Let me also urge the service provider to mount an aggressive public sensitization and advocacy to all the relevant sectoral groups in order to adequately harness the potentials of the audience measurement system.”