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Tag: MOHAMMED Idris

  • Religious genocide: Idris charges advertisers to correct narratives

    Religious genocide: Idris charges advertisers to correct narratives

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has charged advertisers to join in correcting the narratives about religious genocides in Nigeria.

    Idris spoke at the 5th Edition of the National Advertising Conference of Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, in Abuja. 

    The conference has as a theme — “Marketing Communication: Transforming Business and Creating Growth in Challenging Times”.

    He said the challenge facing the nation is not only economically related but also communicational.

    While admitting the fact that the country has security challenges, the minister, however, said that the present administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully committed to ending the scourge

    He noted that the government has made huge investments to strengthen the security architecture.

    He said, “Distinguished participants, our nation today faces challenges that are not only economic or security-related but also communicational. One of the gravest of these is the deliberate spread of misinformation — particularly the false and damaging narrative of Nigeria as a “violator of religious freedom.”

    Let me state clearly and emphatically that this narrative is false. It is a distortion of our reality as a nation of diverse peoples and faiths, who have lived together peacefully for generations. Yes, Nigeria has faced security challenges, especially from terrorists and violent extremists, but these are not targeted at any religion or ethnic group. All Nigerians — Christians, Muslims, and people of other faiths — have suffered from the menace of terrorism and banditry.

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    “The present administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is fully committed to ending this scourge. We have invested deeply in strengthening our security architecture, rejigging the command and control structure, and injecting new ideas and fresh perspectives into the war against terror.

    He also added, “Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, in these challenging times, communication remains our strongest instrument — for business, for governance, and for nation-building. Let us therefore use it wisely, creatively, and responsibly. “

    He therefore charged the advertiser as marketing communication professionals to get involved in the national perception and image.

    “You are not only storytellers for brands and businesses — you are also custodians of national perception and image.

     “When false narratives about Nigeria are spread — especially internationally — it is your creativity, strategy, and storytelling that can counterbalance them with truth, context, and compelling narratives of hope and progress.

    “We need a communication renaissance — one that emphasizes facts over fear, unity over division, and truth over propaganda. We must project Nigeria as it truly is: a diverse, dynamic, and resilient nation of hardworking people who coexist peacefully, aspire collectively, and strive daily to build a better society. Through integrated campaigns, digital storytelling, strategic partnerships, and value-based branding, our marketers can reshape how Nigeria is perceived globally — as a land of opportunity, innovation, and creativity, not of conflict or crisis,” the minister said.

     He also assured members of ARCON of the ministry’s support and partnership to ensure that the advertising and communication ecosystem thrives in a regulated but enabling environment.

    He also added, “We are retooling our public information machinery to align with the realities of the digital age — where truth must travel faster than falsehood, and where the Nigerian story must be told by Nigerians themselves.

    “The National Values Charter Framework, being implemented by the Ministry, is aimed at restoring the values of truth, integrity, patriotism, and national pride. These are values that must also underpin all marketing and communication practices in this country. “

    In his conclusion, the Minister said, “We live in an era where businesses must innovate not only to survive but to thrive amid economic headwinds, technological disruption, and shifting consumer behaviour.

    “Marketing communication is at the centre of this transformation. It remains the bridge between creativity and commerce, between ideas and impact, and between perception and reality. As a tool of persuasion and nation-building, communication has never been more powerful — or more needed — than it is today.”

    In his remarks, ARCON DG Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo charged advertising professionals to drive business growth through innovation and strategic communication.

    Fadolapo said, “In today’s world, market algorithms and marketing activities are shifting faster than ever. Consumer behaviour is becoming more complex to track, and digital disruption continues to redefine the rules of engagement,” Fadolapo said.

    “This is why our ability to communicate effectively has become more vital than ever.”

    The ARCON boss underscored the crucial role of marketing communications in stimulating business growth, brand resilience, and national development, particularly amid economic uncertainties.

    He noted that the 2025 conference provides an opportunity for professionals to exchange insights, challenge assumptions, and develop solutions that strengthen the advertising ecosystem.

    “This is a gathering of strategists, creators, innovators, and storytellers united by a shared goal: to reimagine how communication drives brand value, business sustainability, and national growth,” he added.

    Fadolapo reaffirmed ARCON’s commitment to fostering professionalism, ethical standards, and innovation across the advertising industry.

  • Anti-Nigeria propaganda: FG moves to counter false narratives —Minister

    Anti-Nigeria propaganda: FG moves to counter false narratives —Minister

    Damaging narratives about Nigeria will no longer go unchallenged by the Federal Government, Information and National Orientation Minister, Mohammed Idris, said yesterday in London.

    Accordingly, government is in the process of building strategic global partnerships to counter all negative narratives aimed at damaging the reputation of the country.

    The Minister spoke at the UK Edition of the Renewed Hope Global Dialogue with the theme “Strengthening Global Partnerships for Economic Renewal and National Rebranding under the Renewed Hope Administration.”

    It came against the background of the recent claims by some American lawmakers of genocide against Christians in Nigeria.

    Idris declared that partnerships and collaboration remain central to Nigeria’s efforts at rebranding and repositioning itself on the world stage.

    He dismissed the genocide allegation as a disinformation campaign.

    “We have been very robust in our rebuttals, making it clear that these are despicable narratives being peddled by people who know nothing about Nigeria,” he said.

    He added: “We need international friends and partners who know our country very well and understand our nuances and complexities, and who can add their voices to ours to present an accurate, believable and credible picture of the country.”

    Idris said his ministry was deeply involved in the task of national rebranding working with strategic partners to project Nigeria positively.

    “A national brand does not emerge by accident; it has to be designed, crafted, and marketed in a deliberate and painstaking way,” he noted.

    According to him, the Ministry, in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), has already launched the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG) — “a partnership aimed at maximising positive national pride among Nigerians and promoting a positive global reputation in all spheres.”

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    “The NRMG has recently unveiled the Nigeria Global Reputation Management Project, managed by renowned branding experts and professionals, and you will hear much more about it in the coming weeks and months,” he said.

    Idris further disclosed that the Federal Government has designated October 15 every year as Nigeria Reputation Day, to commemorate and raise awareness about the importance of national reputation.

    Highlighting key diplomatic and economic milestones, the Minister said President Tinubu’s foreign policy vision, encapsulated in the Tinubu Doctrine anchored on the 4Ds – Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora – is already yielding tangible results.

    “At the beginning of this year, Nigeria was admitted as a BRICS partner country, opening up a new chapter of cooperation with some of the world’s biggest and fastest-developing nations.

    “Just this week, a Nigerian was elected Secretary-General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), while another Nigerian—my colleague, the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas)—emerged as President of the 2026 GECF Ministerial Meeting,” he added.

    The Minister added that only on Friday, Nigeria was delisted from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List, affirming the success of President Tinubu’s bold reforms to strengthen the nation’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism framework.

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    The Minister praised the efforts of government agencies and international partners whose collaboration under President Tinubu’s leadership made these achievements possible, saying it demonstrates “very clearly to the world that Nigeria is serious about financial transparency and enforcement.”

    On the domestic front, Idris highlighted the administration’s reform momentum, noting that Nigeria currently has a unified exchange rate regime, a national student loans programme that has benefited over half a million students and counting, a new national minimum wage, a national consumer credit program, presidential CNG initiative, four new Tax Acts, five new Regional Development Commissions, and a Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.

    He reiterated that these initiatives are fast-tracking the country’s ambitions to be a leading global economy.

    The Minister expressed confidence that Nigeria is reclaiming lost ground both at home and abroad under President Tinubu’s leadership, emphasising that the country will continue to forge and strengthen strategic partnerships to sustain and accelerate the progress being achieved.

    “We are a listening, engaging government, and we invite you to seek out more information about the fantastic things happening in Nigeria and to explore ways of partnering with us to take the transformation to the next level,” he stated.

    Early this month, US Senator Ted Cruz introduced a bill aimed at sanctioning the Nigerian government for allegedly supporting terrorism designed to decimate the country’s Christian population.

    Cruz alleged that extremist groups were going from house to house, hunting down Christians for decades, including  Catholic with a view to ridding  the country of Christians.

    The aim of  the bill, entitled “Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025,” is for the  US to sanction Nigeria.

    He said the bill would put real consequences on the Nigerian government for facilitating the “persecution of Christians.”

    In its first reaction to the allegations, the Federal Government labeled them as false, baseless, despicable, and divisive.

    “Portraying Nigeria’s security challenges as a targeted campaign against a single religious group is a gross misrepresentation of reality,” it said.

    Continuing, the federal Government said: “While Nigeria, like many countries, has faced security challenges, including acts of terrorism perpetrated by criminals, couching the situation as a deliberate, systematic attack on Christians is inaccurate and harmful. It oversimplifies a complex, multifaceted security environment and plays into the hands of terrorists and criminals who seek to divide Nigerians along religious or ethnic lines.

    “The violent activities of terrorist groups are not confined to any particular religious or ethnic community. These criminals target all who reject their murderous ideology, regardless of faith. Muslims, Christians, and even those who do not identify with any religion have suffered at their hands.

    “The Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to completely degrading terrorist groups and securing the lives and property of all citizens, and this resolve is already yielding results. Between May 2023 and February 2025 alone, over 13,543 terrorists and criminals were neutralized and nearly 10,000 hostages rescued in multiple military operations across the country.

    “Only last month, the top leadership of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan – commonly known as ANSARU, Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate, was captured in a well-coordinated counter-terrorism operation. They are: Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a/Abbas/Mukhtar), the self-styled Emir of ANSARU; and Mahmud al-Nigeri (aka Mallam Mamuda), Abu Bara’s proclaimed Chief of Staff and Deputy.

    “These feats underscore the determination and success of our security forces and expose as unfounded the notion that Nigeria is passively tolerating religiously motivated terrorism.

    “The Federal Government is steadfast in its duty to protect every Nigerian, regardless of ethnic or religious identity, and continues to work with international partners to address the global threat of terrorism.

    “The Nigerian Armed Forces and Police have demonstrated their commitment to accountability by conducting court martial and prosecutions to hold their officials accountable for any misconduct. This effort underscores the importance of discipline and adherence to the rule of law within our security agencies.

    “Nigeria is a multi-religious state with large populations of both Christians and Muslims. We are home to one of the largest Muslim communities in the world, alongside some of the biggest Pentecostal churches and the largest Anglican congregation globally.

    “Christianity is neither endangered nor marginalised in Nigeria. It is doubtful that foreign interlopers into Nigeria’s affairs are aware that the current heads of both the Armed Forces and the Police Force are Christians—a fact that underscores the inclusivity of our national leadership.”

  • Communication experts must seek truth, others, says minister

    Communication experts must seek truth, others, says minister

    Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged communication professionals to rise as custodians of truth and builders of social cohesion in face of disinformation and global polarisation.

    Delivering the keynote at the unveiling of World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) 2026 in Abuja, Idris noted the vital role of communication experts in shaping narratives that promote unity and public trust.

    He urged public relations practitioners to lead global conversations on ethical communication, truth-driven advocacy, and accountability.

    He said responsible communication is not only the theme but also the moral compass that should guide professional communicators in their work.

    Describing Nigeria’s hosting as an honour and call to excellence, Idris said the event offers us a platform to showcase its diversity, creativity, and communicative strength.

    He added the government is committed to repositioning Nigeria’s image through truth, professionalism, and responsible storytelling.

    The minister noted that the forum aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of restoring trust between the government and citizens while promoting Nigeria’s positive image on the global stage.

    “In an era of disinformation and global polarisation, communication professionals must rise as custodians of truth and builders of social cohesion,” the minister stated.

    President and Chair of the Governing Council of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Ike Neliaku, described the forum as the World Cup of Public Relations, adding Nigeria is ready to host 126 countries under the International Public Relations Association.

    “The World PR Forum will bring together professionals, academics, and policymakers from the continents.

     “This is our time to show the world the authentic Nigeria – creative, resilient, and responsible,” Neliaku said.

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    He noted that hosting the forum alongside the 2026 Africa Public Relations Association (APRA) Conference positions Nigeria as Africa’s communication hub and reinforces its growing reputation in strategic communication and reputation management.

    He however expressed appreciation to Minister Idris for his unwavering support in helping Nigeria secure the hosting rights for the global event, describing it as a national project that gives us the chance to present Nigeria in its true image before the international community.

    He also announced that the global unveiling of the 2026 WPRF will take place next month in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, marking the start of international awareness ahead of the Abuja forum.

    “Everyone wants to come to Nigeria. We are set to host the biggest, brightest, and boldest World Public Relations Forum ever held. We are going to do what other past hosts haven’t done.”

  • Nigeria not a ‘genocide destination’, says minister

    Nigeria not a ‘genocide destination’, says minister

    •APC information commissioners pledge support for FGN-PGF synergy

    Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris has said Nigeria is being deliberately tagged a genocide country by purveyors of misinformation.

    The minister stated that the tag was used by those who sought to cause disaffection and panic among the country’s diverse nationalities.

    He directed all information commissioners in the states under the All Progressives Congress (APC) to counter what he called the “deliberate and malicious campaign” falsely labeling Nigeria as a “genocide destination”.

    Idris said this while addressing APC information commissioners yesterday in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, at a quarterly strategy meeting.

    The minister described the genocide narrative as a “coordinated disinformation operation” designed to incite panic, fracture national unity, damage Nigeria’s international standing, and “skim away the investment we so urgently need”.

    Highlighting the gravity of the challenge, Idris insisted that the war for Nigeria’s reputation is now being fought on two fronts.

    He said: “We must master the digital battlefield. Of course, we know that this war is not just fought on the traditional media. You also have to know how the use of digital media, of social media, can either make or mar our mission.”

    The minister directed the commissioners, whom he called the “stewards of our truth” and the “architects of public understanding,” to strategically disarm this “corrosive narrative”.

    He said: “Distinguished Commissioners of Information and my colleagues in our national service, I want to recognise the pivotal role you play in information management and dissemination.

    “In an era when information is both a tool for development and a weapon of conflict, you are the architects of public understanding and the first line of defence for our national integrity.

    “We meet today at a critical juncture where the global information space is being weaponised against our nation.

    “We are now confronting a deliberate and malicious campaign to falsely and ludicrously label Nigeria as a genocide destination.

    “This is not mere misinformation. It is a coordinated disinformation operation designed to incite panic, fracture national unity, damage our international standing, and skim away the investment we so urgently need.

    “Your role, therefore, has never been more pivotal in this fight against a deliberate attempt to make Nigeria look very bad in the comity of nations.

    “Our first strategic imperative, therefore, is to disarm and dislodge this corrosive narrative.

    “We must refuse to amplify the terminology of our detractors. Instead, our messaging must be proactive, grounded in verifiable facts, and focused on the reality of our ongoing efforts toward security, stability, and national cohesion.

    “Nigeria is not a destination for genocide, and we must rise up to protect our nation in the face of this.

    “This moment demands that we reinforce our strategic counter-voice, systematically deconstructing these dangerous falsehoods with data, with expert testimony, and with powerful narratives of community resilience and inter-ethnic cooperation,” he said.

    Using Borno State as an example of resilience against misinformation, Idris said; “Indeed, the example of Borno and Burma in the place of Nigeria is an indication of how, when we come together united, we can forge a common front to defend our country. 

    “We must demystify naysayers. We must also reassure the public by re-purposing complex government initiatives into accessible proof-points of security. If we do not do this, we will not be able to protect our country.

    “The decades past have been a challenge, and we must also reassure the public by re-purposing complex government initiatives into accessible proof-points of security. If we do not do this, our commitment to unity and security will falter.

    “Furthermore, we must forge a united information front partnering with governors, community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society to create a chorus of credible voices that collectively refute this false narrative and affirm our shared identity as a country.

    “To do this effectively, we must master the digital battlefield. Of course, we know that this war is not just fought in the traditional media. You also have to know how the use of digital media, of social media, can either make or mar our mission,” he explained.

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    The minister outlined a multi-pronged strategy for the state commissioners to use Proactive, Fact-Based Messaging, demanding a shift away from amplifying detractors’ terminology by focusing messaging on verifiable facts and the reality of ongoing efforts toward security and stability in the country.

    According to him, a Strategic Counter-Voice must also be developed by the commissioners, which will systematically “deconstruct these dangerous falsehoods with data, with expert testimony, and with powerful narratives of community resilience and inter-ethnic cooperation,” citing Borno’s resilience as an example.

    Also, the information commissioners called for the strengthening of collaboration between the Federal Government and the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) to accelerate development outcomes across the federation.

    The two-day meeting with the theme: FGN-PGF Synergy 2025: One Message, One Future focused on strategic domain review and future projections.

    In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting and read by the Chairman of the forum, Prof. Usman Tar, noted that APC-governed states applauded the commitment and leadership of Progressive Governors in steering their states through a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s history.

    Tar, who is the Borno State Commissioners for Information and Internal Security, praised the PGF  for making the right policy choices and taking decisive actions that are improving governance and enhancing the well-being of citizens across their states.

    The commissioners also acknowledged the tireless efforts of the Progressive Governors in driving development through strategic investments and forward-looking policies, which are already producing visible results and reshaping national narratives.

    The meeting resolved to deepen coordination, policy alignment, and joint implementation frameworks to ensure coherence, impact, and shared progress at both federal and subnational levels.

    The commissioners also committed to intensifying state-level ownership of the PGF National Value Reorientation Campaign through localized messaging, stakeholder partnerships, and community-driven advocacy.

    At the end of the meeting, the information commissioners elected Tar as their chairman and the Cross River State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, as Secretary.

    The commissioners expressed appreciation to Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, for hosting the meeting and Minister Idris and his team for their participation.

  • Idris and foreign media claims

    Idris and foreign media claims

    Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris took time out last week to interrogate characterisations in sections of the foreign media of religion-induced attacks and violence in the country. He was piqued by claims from some international platforms and online commentators that terrorists in Nigeria were carrying out a systematic genocide against Christians.

    Though he named neither the offending social media platforms nor the commentators, the minister considered their claims so grave that he had to issue a statement to correct the wrong impressions created.

    “The federal government strongly condemns and categorically refutes recent allegations by certain international platforms and online influencers suggesting that terrorists operating in Nigeria are engaged in a systematic genocide against Christians. Such claims are false, baseless, despicable, and divisive”, he said.

    He sees as misrepresentation of reality, the portrayal of Nigeria’s security challenges as a targeted campaign against a single religious group and that though Nigeria is faced with security challenges, couching the situation as a deliberate, systematic attack on Christians is inaccurate and harmful. He is largely right.

    The minister’s position seems to find further support in subsisting incidences of such attacks across the country. So, when he said the criminals target all who reject their murderous ideology regardless of faith, he is backed by facts.

    But that is not all there is to the matter. Yes, the criminals target all those who reject their ‘murderous ideology’ without regard to faith. They attack Muslims who do not identify with their own brand of teaching. They also attack Christians because they belong to a different religious fate. If other people who do not belong to any of these two religions are attacked, they were caught in the course of the onslaught on the two dominant religious groups. But what is this murderous ideology? And who are its purveyors in our circumstance?

     Answers to these posers may chart the part to the misinterpretation and mischaracterisation of the security challenges in the country by the foreign media.  And they may well be located in the way religion-induced violence and attacks on worship places budded and escalated in the last couple of years.

    The first bomb attack on worship places surfaced around 2011 when the Boko Haram insurgents attacked St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla near Abuja on a Christmas day leaving in its trail deaths, sorrow and awe. More than 30 worshippers were killed, many others injured and properties of inestimable value destroyed.

    This was followed very closely by bomb blasts at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Church Jos, Plateau State and another at a Church in Gadaka, Yobe State. Those attacks were received with mixed feelings given their targets. But Boko Haram was later to begin attacks on Mosques following mounting suspicions on its motive.

    The situation became complex when the so-called bandits whose motivation has not proved different from that of Boko Haram joined the fray. In the last two months or so, bandits are known to have mounted attacks on Mosques in the northern parts of the country bringing in their wake the death of innocent Muslim worshippers.

    Bandits struck in August this year, during prayer time at Anguwar Montau Mosque in the Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State. At least 32 worshippers were killed in reprisal for the killing of their commanders by villagers the previous weekend. Malumfashi youths were so aggrieved by the attack that they took to protests blocking the Malumfashi-Funtua highway.

    A couple of days ago, armed bandits stormed a Mosque in Yandoto community, Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State killed at least five people and abducted several others. The attack came less than a week after gunmen abducted worshippers during morning prayers at a mosque in Gidan Turbe village also in Tsafe LGA of the same state.

    Before this time, a bomb attack and mass shooting during mass service at St, Francis Catholic church, Owo, Ondo State had left more than 50 people killed. The Nigerian security agencies then fingered ISWAP for the dastardly killings. Four of the masterminds have since been arrested and are facing prosecution.

    Yet, herdsmen attacked St Paul’s Catholic Church, Aye-Twar, Katsina Ala, Benue State last August. Chairman of the Nigerian Catholic Diocesan Priests Association (NCDPA) Katsina Ala, Rev. Fr. Samuel Fila gave a disturbing account of the attack. According to him, “the attack has finally shut down all pastoral activities since all the 26 outstations have been occupied by herdsmen long before now.

    The malevolent attach left in its wake the desecration and destruction of the parish church, destruction of the parish secretariat, the burning to ashes of the Father’s House, destruction of household items, pastoral logistic vehicles in addition to many other items” the NCDPA chairman recounted.

    All these seem to reinforce Idris’ argument that the terrorists operating in the country attacks Muslim and Christian places of worship and therefore puts a lie to the narrative of a systematic genocide against Christians. What could have then, led the foreign media outfits and commentators to their conclusion? Could it be a deliberate voyage on mischief or the general biases and ignorance that sometimes blur western media perception of events in Africa and the less developed nations?

    Even as the motivations of western media platforms remain a matter of conjecture, it would appear they were deceived by the profile of the terrorists. Who are these terrorists operating in Nigeria and what is their mission?

    Top on the list is the Boko Haram insurgents. They are opposed to western education and propelled by the weird desire to institute an Islamic state. Islamic State for West Africa Province ISWAP is another. It broke away from Islamic State    (IS) another radical religious group linked to Al-Qaida. Its name gives out its doctrinaire.

    There are also the bandits whose motivations are yet to be clearly decoded. At one time, they share the same characteristics with the killer herdsmen. And at another, it is difficult to draw a line between them and the Boko Haram insurgents or other terrorist groups masquerading around. They are largely responsible for the attacks in Katsina and Zamfara among other states in the north.

    Attacks on worship places also come from the insurgency of the herdsmen ranked by Global Terrorism Index as the fourth most deadly terrorist group in the world. The case of Katsina Ala is just a tip of the iceberg of such attacks and despoliations. Of course, there are other less effective ones like the Lukarawa. The proliferation of these terror groups propelled by strange religious ideological leanings could obviously send wrong signals.

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    There are other forms criminalities in and around the country. But their purveyors are not engaged in mounting attacks on places of religious worship.  So, it is not unlikely that the profile of these insurgents, doctrines and their preoccupation with attacks on places of worship may have influenced the foreign media platforms.

    They may not have captured the real situation on ground. But the fact that such attacks could lend themselves to misinterpretation outside our shores, illustrates most poignantly the danger in the activities of insurgency groups propagating religious beliefs that run at cross purposes with the secularity of the country. That is the issue to contend with.

    Admittedly, the government has been waging a relentless war against the insurgency of these extremists. In recent times, arrests of key leaders of the insurgent groups have been made. There are also copious reports of their being neutralised in huge numbers by the security agencies.

    But the resurgence of the attacks as the tempo of the 2027 general elections draw nearer raises suspicions of political colouration. Data collected by the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project shows there have been 43 separate attacks on Church premises this year.

    This should instruct a re-assessment of the current strategy in prosecuting the war against terrorism to secure total defeat. As long as the terror groups pursue their weird religious doctrines, so long will their motivations lend themselves to misinterpretation.

  • No religious genocide in Nigeria, says Idris

    No religious genocide in Nigeria, says Idris

    • Omokri faults U.S. talkshow host on alleged killing of Christians

    Genocide and other forms of security crisis in troubled parts of the North are not due to religious factors, the Federal Government said yesterday.

    It said the allegations that terrorists in the country are waging a systematic genocide against Christians are “false, baseless, despicable, and divisive.”

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said portraying the country’s security challenges as a targeted campaign against a single religious group “is a gross misrepresentation of reality.”

    Also yesterday, a former Presidential aide Reno Omokri refuted a claim by a popular United States (U.S.) political talk show host, Mr Bill Maher, that Christians are being targeted and killed in Nigeria.

    Idris also said that claim tended to oversimplify a complex, multi-faceted environment and “plays into the hands of terrorists and criminals who seek to divide Nigerians along religious or ethnic lines.”

    Idris said in a statement that terrorist violence in Nigeria “is not confined to any particular religious or ethnic community,” stressing that  the criminals target “all who reject their murderous ideology, regardless of faith.

    He said: “Muslims, Christians, and even those who do not identify with any religion have suffered at their hands.”

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    The minister said government has risen to the occasion, pointing out that between May 2023 and last February, 13,543 terrorists and criminals were neutralized and nearly 10,000 hostages rescued in multiple operations across the country.

    He said the top leadership of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan (ANSARU), Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate, was captured last month in a coordinated counter-terrorism operation.

    The minister said those arrested included Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a/Abbas/Mukhtar), described as the group’s self-styled Emir, and Mahmud al-Nigeri (aka Mallam Mamuda), identified as Abu Bara’a’s proclaimed Chief of Staff and Deputy.

    He said these “feats underscore the determination and success of our security forces and expose as unfounded the notion that Nigeria is passively tolerating religiously motivated terrorism.”

    Idris alluded to the imperative of accountability, saying that the Armed Forces and the Police have conducted court-martials and prosecuted  officials found culpable of misconduct.

    He added that “discipline and adherence to the rule of law within our security agencies” are not compromised.

    The minister also drew attention to judicial intervention against extremist networks, stressing that many batches of Boko Haram suspects have been prosecuted to date, yielding over 700 convictions, with an eighth prosecution cycle underway.

    He added: “Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, our administration remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding justice and enhancing security.”

    Reaffirming Nigeria’s religious diversity, Idris described the country as a multi-religious state with large populations of both Christians and Muslims

    He described Nigeria as “home to one of the largest Muslim communities in the world, alongside some of the biggest Pentecostal churches and the largest Anglican congregation globally.”

    Idris said “Christianity is neither endangered nor marginalized in Nigeria,” adding that “the current heads of both the Armed Forces and the Police Force are Christians.

    The minister emphasised that the composition is an evidence of inclusivity in national leadership.

    He said the Federal Government has continued  to work with international partners to address the global dimensions of terrorism, adding that it is “unwavering in its commitment to completely degrading terrorist groups and securing the lives and property of all citizens.”

    Noting Nigeria’s “resilience, diversity and globally acknowledgement of its commitment to peaceful coexistence,” he alluded to the inaugural Commonwealth Peace Prize awarded in March to Rev. Dr. James Movel Wuye and Imam Dr. Muhammad Nurayn Ashafa, co-founders of the Interfaith Mediation Centre in Nigeria.

    He said their decades-long work now serves as a model for peacebuilding across 56 Commonwealth countries, showing that Nigeria is showcasing tolerance “proven frameworks for interfaith harmony.

    Idris condemned sensational portrayals of the security situation, urging the international media and commentators to “act with responsibility and have respect for facts,” avoid “ignorance, and divisive rhetoric,” and support efforts against terrorism and criminality.

    He added: “The Nigerian story is not one of religious genocide or persecution. It is a story of a nation confronting terror with resolve, prosecuting offenders under the law, and strengthening the bonds of unity among its diverse people.”

  • Idris: Federal Govt projects spread fairly among six zones

    Idris: Federal Govt projects spread fairly among six zones

    • Northwest is major beneficiary
    • Over 1,000 primary healthcare centres rehabilitated

    The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration has been fair to the six geo-political zones in the distribution of Federal Government projects, appointments and opportunities, Minister of Information and National Orientation Minister, Mohammed Idris, said yesterday.

    He rose in defence of the government, following insinuations of lopsidedness in projects locations.

    In a statement, he listed the projects and their value in each of the six geo-political zones.

     From the data by the minister, Northwest is the biggest beneficiary, with projects worth N5.97 trillion (over 40 per cent of approvals given by the government since Tinubu took over power in 2023).

     Others are: Southsouth (N2.41 trillion); Northcentral (N1.13 trillion); Southeast (N407 billion); Northeast (N400 billion) and Southwest (N604 billion) – excluding Lagos.

     Insisting the administration has demonstrated commitment to balanced development and inclusivity since assuming office, Idris said: “In the light of recent insinuations, half-truths and fake information being circulated, we find it expedient to make it clear that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has been guided, at all times, by principles of fairness, justice, and equity in the distribution of Federal Government projects, appointments, and opportunities in the six geopolitical zones of our country.

     “The distribution of capital projects under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is equitable. No region is playing a second fiddle or ignored. In addition to projects by Ministries, Departments and Agencies, all six regions have Regional Development Commissions to re-kickstart development efforts.

     “While the Coastal Highway courses through the South, the Badagry – Sokoto Highway, under construction, traverses majorly the North. This sense of balance runs through all the major infrastructure projects being implemented today.”

     “Major infrastructural interventions are simultaneously ongoing across the federation – from highways and bridges to rail and power projects. The administration has secured funding for light rail projects in Kano and Kaduna states to the tune of N150 billion and N100 billion.

     “The metroline projects in Lagos and Ogun states form part of the government’s effort to develop Nigeria’s light rail infrastructure. Collectively, these projects are expected to create over 250,000 jobs nationwide.

     There is also a renewed push for rehabilitation of the Eastern corridor of the rail line from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri. In addition, over 1,000 primary health care centres have been rehabilitated across the country, underscoring the administration’s commitment to human capital and social infrastructure.”

    Legacy road projects

     The minister listed the following as legacy road projects initiated by Tinubu. They are:

     • Lagos – Calabar Coastal Highway (750 km): 175 km ongoing in Lagos, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states

     • Sokoto – Badagry Superhighway (1,068 km): 378 km ongoing in Kebbi and Sokoto sections

     • Trans-Sahara Highway (465 km): 118 km ongoing in Ebonyi State

     • Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Road (439 km): Being redesigned from flexible to rigid pavement for durability.

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      “Of the total length of these projects, the North accounts for 52 per cent and the South for 48 per cent”, Idris explained.

    Other major projects in the North

    •Sokoto–Gusau–Funtua–Zaria Road (275 km     dualised, N824 billion).

    •Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Road (350 km dualised, N764b).

     •BUA Tax Credit Road in Jigawa, Katsina, Kano    (256 km dualised).

     •Zaria – Hunkuyi Road (156 km).

    •Kano Northern Bypass (49 km).

    •Kano – Maiduguri Road (100.9 km).

    •Bama and Dikwa Roads in Borno (100 km).

    •Damaturu – Maiduguri Road (110 km).

     •Malando Road in Kebbi (76 km).

     •Benue – 9th Mile Road (250 km dualised, $958m).

     • Lokoja – Okene Dualisation (86 km).

    • Kaduna – Katsina Roads (sections 1 and 2, N150 billion).

    Major projects in the Southwest

    •Lagos–Ibadan (8.5 km, N33 billion).

    •Lagos–Sagamu (12 km dualised).

    •Oyo–Ogbomoso–Ilorin (N146 billion).

    •Rehabilitation of Carter, Third Mainland, and Eko Bridges (N120 billion

     Southeast

    •Enugu–Onitsha Road (107 km, N202 billion via MTN Tax Credit).

    • Enugu–Onitsha Road (72 km, N150 billion via CBC).

    •Enugu–Abakaliki Road (36 km).

    •2nd Niger Bridge Access Road (17.5 km dualised, N175 billion).

    •Lokpanta–Enugu Road (61 km dualised, N100 billion).

    Southsouth

    •Eleme–Onne Road (30 km, N156 billion).

    •Eket Bypass (9.7 km dualised, N76 billion).

    •East – West Road Section 2 (N186 billion).

    •Nembe – Brass Road (N150 billion).

    •Lokoja – Benin Dualisation (N167 billion).

    •2nd Niger Bridge Access Road in Delta (17 km dualised, N146 billion).

    •Bodo – Bonny Road in Rivers (35 km with 12 bridges, N200 billion).

    The minister, who listed other sectors where the administration has made impact, noted: “Beyond roads and rail, this administration has revived the 255MW Kaduna Power Plant, advanced the AKK Gas Project, and expanded oil and gas exploration in the North with the drilling of three oil wells in the Kolmani region of Bauchi and Gombe States. Kano-Maradi rail line, inherited at five per cent, has received huge funding support from the government making it attain 67 per cent in a short time.

    “President Tinubu is building national infrastructure, not local trophies. Lagos is rightly upgraded as Nigeria’s commercial hub, but the Northwest holds the lion’s share of approvals. This proves that all regions are receiving fair consideration.

    “Equity is also evident in federal appointments. President Tinubu has appointed capable Nigerians from every part of the country, guided by competence and inclusivity rather than sectional considerations.

     “Inclusivity lies at the heart of the Renewed Hope Agenda. The establishment of five new Regional Development Commissions and creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development further illustrate the President’s determination to address Nigeria’s developmental needs in a manner that benefits all sections of the country.

     “On the whole, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not only kept faith with Nigerians but has proved to be a fair, pragmatic, and consequential reformer. His leadership is inclusive, his vision is unifying, and his commitment to equity and justice is unwavering. Nigerians can rest assured that, under his watch, no part of this country will be left behind.”

  • Take advantage of FG’s N200bn funds to grow your business, minister urges Southeast entrepreneurs

    Take advantage of FG’s N200bn funds to grow your business, minister urges Southeast entrepreneurs

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on entrepreneurs in the Southeast to tap into the Federal Government’s N200 billion intervention funds to expand their businesses and promote locally made products.

    Idris appealed during a town hall meeting at the Government House in Enugu weekend as part of the National Communication Team’s citizens’ engagement tour to explain the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

     He said the funds— comprising the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme (PCGS), the FGN MSME Intervention Fund, and the FGN Manufacturing Sector Fund—were specially designed to support small businesses, boost manufacturing, and strengthen the country’s industrial base.

    “Recognizing the Southeast’s industrial strength, the government has created three key business funds totalling ₦200 billion. I urge entrepreneurs to take advantage of these funds and embrace the ‘Nigeria First’ policy that promotes patronage of locally made products,” Idris stated.

     He said the FG’s delegation was in Enugu to connect directly with the people of the state on the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, whose goal is to bridge the communication gap between the government and the citizens, block the spread of misinformation and strengthen participatory democracy through open dialogue.

    The minister highlighted ongoing Federal Government projects in Enugu and by extension the Southeast the region, including the modernization of the Eastern Railway Corridor from Port Harcourt through Aba and Enugu to Maiduguri, the rehabilitation of over 1,000 primary healthcare centres, and the commissioning of a world-class oncology and cancer centre in Enugu.

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    “Today, we went to see all the roads linking Enugu to other parts of the Southeast, Southsouth and the North; we went to see the 350 meters flyover bridge at Eke Obinagu and all the projects which the Bola Tinubu led federal government is doing in Enugu and in deed Southeast. 

    “The flyover bridge at Eke Obinagu is significant because it connects Enugu to Ebonyi state, to Akwa Ibom, Cross River and even to Cameroon. The bridge is almost being completed by President Bola Tinubu and we know it is what he promised and very soon the people of this state and their neighbours will benefit from the project upon completion,” the monster said.

    He also commended Governor Peter Mbah for his administration’s collaboration with the Federal Government to deliver infrastructure and other development projects in Enugu State.

    Idris noted that Enugu and Imo were among 11 states granted regulatory autonomy to oversee their electricity markets under the new Electricity Act, urging other South-East states to follow suit.

    According to him, economic indicators such as food prices and foreign exchange rates are stabilizing, with global rating agencies optimistic about Nigeria’s growth towards a $1 trillion economy by 2030.

    The minister assured that while challenges remain, President Tinubu’s reforms would yield clearer benefits by the end of his first term, with the Southeast positioned as a key player in the nation’s economic transformation.

    Earlier when the minister led his high-powered federal government media delegation to pay a courtesy visit on Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State at the state government house, he assured that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to the development of Enugu State and the entire Southeast region.

    According to him, the President’s reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, have freed up resources for both the federal and state governments to invest in critical infrastructure and social services.

  • Tinubu’s reforms boosting economic recovery

    Tinubu’s reforms boosting economic recovery

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Wednesday said that the Nigerian economy is steadily improving.

    Idris said the improvement is as a result of the implementation of wide-range reforms under President Tinubu.

    The Minister spoke in Abuja while receiving members and newly elected executives of the Nigerian Guild of Editors during a courtesy visit to his office.

    He said the administration is making steady progress and successfully flaering the curve despite challenges.

    “The economy is not yet what we want it to be but we can see that there is a steady progression. The President has said over and over again that we are turning the corner. I know that many people will say it’s not yet El-dorado. Yes! I also agree but you cannot always say that there is no progress.

    “Even all the rating agencies in the world are also giving Nigeria some pass marks. We are seeing some upward ticks in the way our economy is being managed,” he said.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s reforms boosting Nigeria’s economic recovery – FG

    The Minister noted that landmark reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange rates, are already having a positive impact on the economy.

    Idris further stated that approximately 300,000 students are currently benefiting from the Students Loan Scheme, with the Federal Government covering their tuition fees and providing support for their upkeep on campus.

     “Because of this deliberate intentional policy of the government, over 300,000 Nigerians students that hitherto were out of school or could have been out of school, now have the opportunity to be in school because the government is paying for their tuition and upkeep. This is unprecedented,” he stated.

    He added that security challenges are also being addressed decisively, with sustained successes recorded in the fight against violent criminals across the country.

    Idris, therefore, called on the media to play an active role in encouraging and supporting the Armed Forces in their ongoing efforts to combat crime and safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity.

     “I have always said that it is not good for us as media practitioners to place emphasis or premium on these criminals, gangsters and terrorists or bandits or whatever they are, over and above the citizens of this country,” he said.

    Idris noted that media coverage should not focus solely on attacks against security forces, but should also highlight the successes and sacrifices of the Armed Forces. He stressed the importance of amplifying these achievements, particularly in the context of condemning the actions of criminal groups and motivating the Armed Forces.

    The Minister emphasized that while it is the media’s responsibility to hold the government accountable through constructive criticism, it is equally important for journalists to promote the positive milestones and achievements of the administration.

    In response to the Law Reform Report submitted by the Guild, the Minister stated that he would engage with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, and also set up a committee within his ministry to study the report thoroughly.

    Idris stated that the policy thrust of the Tinubu administration is its unwavering commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression, which he described as the cornerstone of the nation’s democracy.

    He, however, urged the media to exercise press freedom with a strong sense of responsibility and patriotism, underscoring the need to promote peace, unity, and national stability in the discharge of their duties.

    Idris also used the occasion to congratulate the newly elected executives of the Guild, assuring them of his commitment to fostering closer collaboration and bridging the gap between the government and the media.

    Earlier in his remarks, the Deputy President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Dr. Sebastian Abu, stated that the delegation was at the Minister’s office to formally present the report of the Guild’s Law Reform Committee. He explained that the report highlights several outdated laws within the Nigerian constitution that require review or removal to guarantee a freer and more enabling environment for media practice in the country.

  • Tinubu’s reforms boosting Nigeria’s economic recovery – FG

    Tinubu’s reforms boosting Nigeria’s economic recovery – FG

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Wednesday said that the Nigerian economy is steadily improving.

    Idris said the improvement is a result of the implementation of wide-ranging reforms under President Tinubu.

    The Minister spoke in Abuja while receiving members and newly elected executives of the Nigerian Guild of Editors during a courtesy visit to his office.

    He said the administration is making steady progress and successfully flattening the curve despite challenges.

    “The economy is not yet what we want it to be, but we can see that there is a steady progression. The President has said over and over again that we are turning the corner. I know that many people will say it’s not yet El-dorado. Yes! I also agree, but you cannot always say that there is no progress.

    “Even all the rating agencies in the world are also giving Nigeria some pass marks. We are seeing some upward ticks in the way our economy is being managed,” he said.

    The Minister noted that landmark reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange rates, are already having a positive impact on the economy.

    Idris further stated that approximately 300,000 students are currently benefiting from the Students’ Loan Scheme, with the Federal Government covering their tuition fees and providing support for their upkeep on campus.

    “Because of this deliberate, intentional policy of the government, over 300,000 Nigerian students who hitherto were out of school or could have been out of school, now have the opportunity to be in school because the government is paying for their tuition and upkeep. This is unprecedented,” he stated.

    He added that security challenges are also being addressed decisively, with sustained successes recorded in the fight against violent criminals across the country.

    Idris, therefore, called on the media to play an active role in encouraging and supporting the Armed Forces in their ongoing efforts to combat crime and safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity.

    “I have always said that it is not good for us as media practitioners to place emphasis or premium on these criminals, gangsters and terrorists or bandits or whatever they are, over and above the citizens of this country,” he said.

    Idris noted that media coverage should not focus solely on attacks against security forces, but should also highlight the successes and sacrifices of the Armed Forces. He stressed the importance of amplifying these achievements, particularly in the context of condemning the actions of criminal groups and motivating the Armed Forces.

    The Minister emphasised that while it is the media’s responsibility to hold the government accountable through constructive criticism, it is equally important for journalists to promote the positive milestones and achievements of the administration.

    In response to the Law Reform Report submitted by the Guild, the Minister stated that he would engage with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, and also set up a committee within his ministry to study the report thoroughly.

    Idris stated that the policy thrust of the Tinubu administration is its unwavering commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression, which he described as the cornerstone of the nation’s democracy.

    Read Also: Oppositions’ early 2027 moves won’t distract Tinubu, says Idris

    He, however, urged the media to exercise press freedom with a strong sense of responsibility and patriotism, underscoring the need to promote peace, unity, and national stability in the discharge of their duties.

    Idris also used the occasion to congratulate the newly elected executives of the Guild, assuring them of his commitment to fostering closer collaboration and bridging the gap between the government and the media.

    Earlier in his remarks, the Deputy President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Dr. Sebastian Abu, stated that the delegation was at the Minister’s office to formally present the report of the Guild’s Law Reform Committee. He explained that the report highlights several outdated laws within the Nigerian constitution that require review or removal to guarantee a freer and more enabling environment for media practice in the country.