Tag: MOHAMMED Idris

  • FG targets food sufficiency through Public-Private Partnership – Idris

    FG targets food sufficiency through Public-Private Partnership – Idris

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has disclosed that the federal government is working closely with state governments and the private sector to scale up investments in agriculture and achieve self-sufficiency in food production.

    The Minister, according to a statement by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrhim disclosed this on Tuesday during an inspection visit to a state-of-the-art Tilapia Fish Farm operated by Kainji Aquaculture Resources Limited in New Bussa as well as the Hydropolis Free Trade Zone in Amfani, Magama Local Government Area of Niger State.

    The Minister was accompanied by the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh; the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Ambassador Nura Rimi; and a representative of the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, Ugochukwu Akagaogu.

    Idris, the statement said, described the creation of the Federal Ministries of Marine and Blue Economy and Livestock Development by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as visionary steps aimed at strengthening the regulatory framework for private sector participation and reducing the importation of fish and dairy products into the country.

    “Since the assumption of office by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he has taken deliberate steps, including the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, which oversees over 800 kilometres of coastline and inland waterways suitable for aquaculture. Coupled with the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development, it is evident that the President recognises food security as key to national sovereignty,” the Minister stated.

    He commended the efforts of Kainji Aquaculture Resources Limited and the Hydropolis Free Trade Zone, stating that their success demonstrates the immense potential of collaboration among the Federal Government, sub-national entities, and the private sector in advancing Nigeria’s food production goals.

    Idris further echoed President Tinubu’s recent commitment in Brazil to dismantle bureaucratic bottlenecks hampering the growth of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

    He praised Kainji Aquaculture Resources Limited for choosing to invest in the hatching and rearing of Tilapia — one of Nigeria’s most consumed fish varieties, which is currently being imported in large quantities. He said the venture will help reduce fish importation, create direct and indirect jobs, and offer sustainable solutions to youth unemployment.

    “We have been informed that current production stands at 1,000 metric tonnes, with plans to double this to 2,000 metric tonnes by the end of the year, and to scale up to 5,000 metric tonnes within four years,” he said.

    During a tour of the Hydropolis Free Trade Zone, the Minister expressed his admiration for the scope and ambition of the project, urging both local and foreign investors to take advantage of the infrastructure being developed.

    Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Industry, Senator Enoh, lauded the promoters of the two projects, describing them as aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.

    “A lot of incredible effort has been put by the managements of the Kainji Aquaculture Resources Limited as well as the Hydropolis Free Trade Zone and I think government has to be commended first, for finding it proper to grant the licenses for the Free Trade Zone and therefore, I think that the only way we can achieve Mr. President’s objectives and goals in terms of industrialization, is with the effort of private investors,” he said.

    He emphasised that expanding local production and processing will reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports and help conserve foreign exchange. He noted that the Bank of Industry was established to support such industrial efforts, hence the presence of the Bank’s representative on the visit.

    In his remarks, the Managing Director of the Hydropolis Free Trade Zone, Dr. Abdulmalik Ndagi, explained that the Zone is designed to provide industrial, residential, and commercial infrastructure to attract and retain investors in Nigeria.

    He listed the infrastructure under development to include two power substations, recreational facilities around the lake, a golf course, a polo field, a racetrack, an airport, a train station, a university, world-class hospitals, and more.

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

    Dr. Ndagi disclosed that about ₦30 billion has already been invested in the Free Trade Zone, and appealed to the Bank of Industry for a ₦10 billion intervention facility to accelerate the implementation of subsequent project phases.

    Similarly, the Managing Director of Kainji Aquaculture Resources Limited, Mr. Sa’adu Baloni, stated that the company is committed to enhancing the social and economic well-being of both the host community and the nation.

    He revealed that the company has made a substantial investment in the fish farm and is looking forward to the support of the Bank of Industry to scale up production.

  • Tinubu has acquitted himself creditably in two years, says Idris

    Tinubu has acquitted himself creditably in two years, says Idris

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said yesterday that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has acquitted himself creditably with his bold reforms targeted at repositioning the nation’s economy.

    Idris spoke last night a Channels Television programme.

    He noted that the President is under no illusion about the initial difficulties that would accompany the administration’s reforms, but emphasized that these measures are necessary steps toward restoring the economy to a path of growth and sustainable development.

    “At the outset of the administration, two very important policy decisions were taken – the unification of the exchange rate and the removal of fuel subsidy. These were issues that have been there for decades and of course, you don’t expect that you are going to have a major surgery without pains. That pain is gradually easing out. We are not saying that all the pains have disappeared by now, but what we are saying is that the government is on the right track,” he said.

    The Minister emphasized that President Tinubu is not driven by the pursuit of quick fixes or short-term gains, but rather by a clear vision to lay a solid foundation for enduring growth and development.

    He said the President’s ultimate goal is to leave behind a lasting legacy that will benefit future generations and reposition Nigeria for long-term prosperity.

    “Mr. President is not in this for just a small fix; it’s not cosmetic – it’s the foundation that we are rebuilding. We are taking down what was not working and putting a solid foundation so that our economy can grow.

    Read Also: Tinubu receives four Tax Reform Bills

    “There is  steady progression towards the destination and the prosperity that Mr. President has promised Nigerians,” he stated.

    Idris highlighted key initiatives of the administration, including the student loan scheme, which has enrolled over 300,000 beneficiaries; the establishment of the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation to facilitate access to household and essential items; and the implementation of a new National Minimum Wage aimed at improving the living conditions of Nigerian workers.

    “This is a government that is investing in agriculture; education; resetting the economy. This is a government that is making the sub-nationals to have more resources to build infrastructure for their people. This is a government that is building health care centres across the country; this is a government that is building dialysis centres in the six geopolitical zones. This is a government that is investing in medical industrialization, creative industry and putting more resources in the digital sector,” he said.

    The Minister stated that under the current administration, there exists a strong and unwavering political will to confront and overcome the security challenges facing the nation. He emphasized Tinubu has demonstrated decisive leadership by adopting a unique and proactive approach to national security.

  • Nigeria on path of economic renewal, global respect – Idris

    Nigeria on path of economic renewal, global respect – Idris

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to rebuilding the nation’s economy, restoring investor confidence, and deepening democratic values.

    Idris defended President Tinubu’s bold reform agenda, which includes the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange rates — two of the most significant policy shifts in Nigeria’s recent economic history.

    The minister, according to his media aide, Mr. Rabiu Ibrahim, spoke in an exclusive interview with Forbes Africa to mark the Democracy Day celebration.

    Read Also: You lack good taste, Wike replies critics, defends ₦39bn conference centre renovation

    He said: “These were difficult decisions that had to be made.

     “They caused some turbulence, but like an aircraft taking off, we are now reaching stability. The World Bank has noted our return to growth levels not seen in over a decade.”

    The minister said this year’s observance of the Democracy Day invited not just celebration, but sober reflection on the journey of democratic consolidation and economic renewal.

    Idris explained that funds recovered from the fuel subsidy removal are being reinvested directly into critical infrastructure projects – including two expansive highway corridors that will span over 1,700 kilometres – aimed at unlocking economic activity and bridging regional divides.

    “The aim is not just connectivity, but economic opportunity,” he said.

  • Nigeria on path of economic renewal, global respect – Idris

    Nigeria on path of economic renewal, global respect – Idris

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to rebuilding the nation’s economy, restoring investor confidence, and deepening democratic values.

    Idris defended President Tinubu’s bold reform agenda, which includes the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates — two of the most significant policy shifts in Nigeria’s recent economic history.

    The Minister, according to his media aide, Mr. Rabiu Ibrahim, spoke in an exclusive interview with Forbes Africa to mark the Democracy Day celebration,

    He said: “These were difficult decisions that had to be made.

    Read Also: Nigeria loses $1.1bn to medical tourism annually — Deputy Speaker Kalu

     “They caused some turbulence, but like an aircraft taking off, we are now reaching stability. The World Bank has noted our return to growth levels not seen in over a decade.”

    The Minister said this year’s observance of the Democracy Day invited not just celebration, but sober reflection on the journey of democratic consolidation and economic renewal.

    Idris explained that funds recovered from the fuel subsidy removal are being reinvested directly into critical infrastructure projects – including two expansive highway corridors that will span over 1,700 kilometres – aimed at unlocking economic activity and bridging regional divides.

    “The aim is not just connectivity, but economic opportunity,” he said. 

    “Nigeria is really retracing its steps. It is becoming an important nation once again among the comity of nations. The respect that Nigeria used to have is now gradually returning. Investors have more confidence in our country,” Idris notes.

    Idris reiterated that the reforms under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda are not just about economic arithmetic, but about creating a new foundation for inclusive growth, accountability, and sustainable development.

  • Minister leads FG delegation on condolence visit on Mokwa flood

    Minister leads FG delegation on condolence visit on Mokwa flood

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has led a Federal Government delegation to Niger State on a condolence visit over the recent flood disaster in Mokwa. 

    Over 150 lives were said to have been lost to the flood while hundreds of homes submerged by the flood. 

    The Minister was accompanied by his  Humanitarian and Poverty Reduction counterpart, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda. 

    Idris said the visit was at the instance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who is saddened by the incident. 

    He said the President has directed that every necessary thing must be done to quickly bring  succour to the people.

    He said the President lamented the situation and directed that the issue should be looked into to prevent future occurrences.

    NEMA has also been directed to enlighten and educate those living close to the flood prone areas around the country.

    Niger Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garuba, who received the delegation on behalf of Governor who is away on Hajj called for government intervention 

    Garuba  said. 151 lives were lost while eleven person are injured and receiving treatments in the hospital.

    Garuba said 3,018 persons have been Displaced as a result of the flooding.

    Read Also: Mokwa flood tragedy: Tinubu orders emergency response activation

    He also said 503 households were also affected. 

    The Deputy Governor also said that three communities were affected within Mokwa town.

    He said the State Government has sent in 6,000 bags of rice to the victims.

    He urged the Federal Government and other well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aide of the people.

    He also urged the Federal Government to help with provision of adequate camp for the displaced person, saying that  the current place is not conducive for the people.

  • Minister warns against deep fake videos targeting public officials

    Minister warns against deep fake videos targeting public officials

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Friday lamented the misuse of Artificial Intelligence for creating and disseminating deepfake videos depicting public officials in compromising situations.

    The Minister, however, stated that the Federal Government was collaborating with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to clean up the social media space while safeguarding freedom of expression.

    The minister, according to a statement signed by his media aide, Mr. Rabiu Ibrahim on Friday spoke while receiving the President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhaji Alhassan Yahaya, who paid him a visit.

    Idris said: “We see how AI can be used both positively and negatively. You could be sitting right here, and someone could superimpose another person’s head onto your body, completely misrepresenting you.

    READ ALSO: Unlike Amotekun, ESN is illegal, witness tells court

    “Every day, we see that the president will say something and somebody will twist it and say a different thing; the minister will say something and somebody will twist it and say another thing,” he said.

    The Minister said deepfake videos had damaged countless reputations and traumatized families by falsely portraying individuals in scandalous situations.

     Idris stated that the Federal Government was collaborating with UNESCO to clean up the social media space while safeguarding freedom of expression.

     “As a government, we are looking at that seriously, especially how to sanitize the social media space without gagging the freedom of expression.”

     “Fortunately for us, the entire world is coming together to see how this menace can be fought. That’s why UNESCO is taking the lead,” he said.

     He noted that UNESCO had gathered input from over 100 countries, with more than 10,000 submissions, and has also developed a comprehensive guide for digital content creators to help uphold the integrity of the online space.

     The Minister, therefore, called on the NUJ to support the fight against fake news and misinformation, emphasizing the need to safeguard the credibility of the journalism profession.

    “For us at the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, we take the issue of misinformation and fake news very seriously and we want to call on you to help us and collaborate with us towards eradicating quacks within this profession and not only that but encouraging citizen journalists and the general public to write and publish only what they know is correct,” he stated.

     The Minister used the occasion to inform the NUJ about the establishment of a Category 2 Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Institute, approved for Nigeria by UNESCO.

    He said the institute, the first of its kind in the world, would equip journalists, students, and the general public with the skills to critically assess and responsibly engage with information in the digital space, combat misinformation and fake news, and promote professionalism.

     The Minister congratulated the NUJ on its 70th anniversary of dedicated service to the nation and reaffirmed the Tinubu Administration’s unwavering commitment to upholding press freedom as a cornerstone for the growth and sustainability of democracy in Nigeria.

     Earlier, the NUJ President, Alhaji Alhassan Yahaya, commended President Tinubu for appointing a media professional as the Minister of Information and National Orientation and pledged to partner with the ministry to showcase the administration’s laudable achievements.

     He also used the occasion to brief the Minister on the activities planned for the NUJ’s 70th anniversary celebration, during which the Minister is expected to serve as Chief Host.

  • FG, UNESCO partner to tackle AI misuse, deepfakes on social media — Minister 

    FG, UNESCO partner to tackle AI misuse, deepfakes on social media — Minister 

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has expressed concern over the growing misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to produce and circulate deepfake videos that portray public officials in compromising and false scenarios.

    Speaking on Friday during a courtesy visit by the President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhaji Alhassan Yahaya, Idris warned that deepfakes have become a dangerous tool for misinformation, damaging reputations and causing distress to individuals and their families.

    “You could be sitting right here, and someone could superimpose another person’s head onto your body, completely misrepresenting you,” the minister noted, according to a statement signed by his media aide, Mr. Rabiu Ibrahim. 

    “Every day, we see how the president or ministers say one thing, and people twist it into something completely different.”

    In response, Idris revealed that the Federal Government is partnering with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to sanitize the social media landscape while upholding the principles of freedom of expression.

    He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that curbs harmful content without infringing on the rights of users to freely express themselves online.

    “As a government, we are looking at that seriously, especially how to sanitize the social media space without gagging the freedom of expression.

    “Fortunately for us, the entire world is coming together to see how this menace can be fought. That’s why UNESCO is taking the lead,” he said.

    Read Also: Ministerial briefing not relocated to London – Idris

    He noted that UNESCO has gathered input from over 100 countries, with more than 10,000 submissions, and has also developed a comprehensive guide for digital content creators to help uphold the integrity of the online space.

    The Minister, therefore, called on the NUJ to support the fight against fake news and misinformation, emphasizing the need to safeguard the credibility of the journalism profession.

    “For us at the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, we take the issue of misinformation and fake news very seriously and we want to call on you to help us and collaborate with us towards eradicating quacks within this profession and not only that but encouraging citizen journalists and the general public to write and publish only what they know is correct,” he stated.

    The Minister used the occasion to inform the NUJ about the establishment of a Category 2 Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Institute, approved for Nigeria by UNESCO.

    He said the institute, the first of its kind in the world, would equip journalists, students, and the general public with the skills to critically assess and responsibly engage with information in the digital space, combat misinformation and fake news, and promote professionalism.

    The Minister congratulated the NUJ on its 70th anniversary of dedicated service to the nation and reaffirmed the Tinubu Administration’s unwavering commitment to upholding press freedom as a cornerstone for the growth and sustainability of democracy in Nigeria.

    Earlier, the NUJ President, Alhaji Alhassan Yahaya, commended President Tinubu for appointing a media professional as the Minister of Information and National Orientation and pledged to partner with the ministry to showcase the administration’s laudable achievements.

    He also used the occasion to brief the Minister on the activities planned for the NUJ’s 70th anniversary celebration, during which the Minister is expected to serve as Chief Host.

  • Strengthening national security is top in Tinubu’s administration – Minister

    Strengthening national security is top in Tinubu’s administration – Minister

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reiterated that bolstering national security remains a central focus of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    Speaking at the continuation of the 7th ministerial briefing on Wednesday, Idris highlighted the government’s substantial investments in acquiring modern equipment for security agencies, reflecting its commitment to safeguarding the nation.

    He also urged journalists to refrain from giving undue prominence to bandits and terrorists in their reportage, warning that such coverage could inadvertently amplify their agenda.

    The briefing featured the minister of defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Muhammed Bello Matawalle, and the Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Abbas.

    In his opening remarks, Idris noted: “As many of you are aware, strengthening national security for peace and prosperity is the second pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda. This emphasis on security underscores a fundamental truth: no nation can achieve sustainable development without peace and stability.”

    “The Tinubu administration has demonstrated this resolve not merely through words, but through concrete actions – including the acquisition of advanced platforms and armaments, enhanced intelligence gathering, intensive training and retraining of personnel, and strategic global partnerships.”

    The minister therefore urged the media to support the military in its discharge of its responsibility.

     He said: “The media, as gatekeepers and partners in nation-building, have a crucial role to play in supporting our military’s morale by highlighting their successes and sacrifices. Our armed forces are not only respected by global allies but also feared by those who threaten our collective peace.

    “It is equally important to recognize that the fight against insecurity is not limited to kinetic approaches. It is also a battle for the hearts and minds of our people – one that terrorist groups are actively exploiting through propaganda, especially on social media platforms.

    “I therefore call on our media professionals and editors to be discerning in their reportage. We must deny these groups the undue publicity they crave. We must take them off the front pages and accurately report them as the criminals they are, without glorifying their acts or giving credence to their false narratives. These are not freedom fighters; they are murderers, kidnappers, and destroyers, and they must be presented as such.

    Read Also: Stop dragging Seyi Tinubu into NANS Affairs, group warns Atiku

    “Let us remember that responsible and patriotic journalism is essential to building a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria – one that holds promise not just for our nation, but for the stability and development of the entire West African sub-region and the African continent at large.”

    The minister also stressed that the Ministerial Briefing presents a vital opportunity for both ministers to update Nigerians on the key achievements, ongoing initiatives, and policy directions of the Ministries. 

    He added, “Through this interactive platform, which is being broadcast live on national television stations and streamed across social media platforms, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to transparency, accountability, and public engagement.

    “Let me reiterate that every minister will have the opportunity to address the public through this platform in the build-up to the 2025 Democracy Day celebrations.”

  • Tinubu committed to ending insecurity, says information minister

    Tinubu committed to ending insecurity, says information minister

    The current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully committed to tackling insecurity in Nigeria, according to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

    Speaking on Wednesday at the Defence Headquarters First Quarter Media Stakeholders Seminar in Abuja, Idris emphasised that the government’s dedication to addressing security challenges is clear through significant investments in modern military assets, ongoing training and retraining of the Armed Forces and security personnel, and enhanced intelligence-gathering efforts at all levels.

    The seminar, themed “Media as a Key Component of Joint Task Force Commanders’ Operational Success,” highlighted the role of the media in supporting security operations and the administration’s broader efforts to combat insecurity across the country.

    He said: “Insecurity and terrorism are not uniquely Nigerian challenges – they are global threats that even the most advanced and sophisticated nations of the world continue to grapple with. From Europe to the Middle East, from North America to Africa, the reality of today’s world is that no country is entirely immune from the scourge of violent extremism and organised criminality.

    “However, what truly makes the difference is how nations respond. The Tinubu administration is unrelenting in its commitment to overcoming these threats and ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians. Under the 8-Point Renewed Hope Agenda of this administration, the cardinal objective is undoubtedly to guarantee our national security through a clear and strategic focus on investing in the right tools, systems, and personnel to secure our nation.

    “This includes massive investments in the acquisition of modern military assets, the training and retraining of our armed forces and security personnel, and the strengthening of intelligence-gathering mechanisms across all levels. These efforts reflect the seriousness with which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is confronting the security challenge head-on.”

    The Minister, who was represented by the Director-General of Voice of Minister, Jibrin Ndace, described the seminar as “timely and noble initiative”, which reflects deep understanding of the Chief of Defence on the critical role of communication in modern warfare, “especially in an era where information can influence outcomes as much as firepower.”

    He noted that strengthening the partnership between the military and the media was essential not only for operational success but for building public trust and fostering a national security-conscious citizenry.

    “The media, without a doubt, is a worthy partner in our national security architecture. As the watchdog of society, the press must strike a delicate balance between the public’s right to know and the imperative to protect national interest,” Idris said.

    He urged the media to deny terrorists the oxygen of publicity by refusing to give prominence to their “cowardly acts”, but instead amplify the heroism of our Armed Forces, the resilience of affected communities, and the progress being made in the pursuit of peace.

    The Minister said: “Let us be clear: whether they are called Boko Haram, bandits, terrorists, kidnappers, unknown gunmen — they are all criminals, enemies of the Nigerian state, and must be treated as such. The responsibility to defeat them rests on all of us, in government, in the military, and in the media.

    “National security is a collective responsibility, and the media plays a pivotal role in educating and enlightening the populace on how they can contribute meaningfully to this cause.

    “Conversely, what the media must not amplify, in the spirit of unity and national cohesion, is negative and incendiary rhetoric that trails communal clashes as seen in recent situations.

    “The media must also serve as a platform to mobilise public support for military operations. We must encourage citizens to volunteer timely and useful information to security agencies.”

    In his remarks, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru, said the military must explore innovative ways to pass adequate information about troops operations to the public.

    Badaru said that by doing so it would be able to win public trust, enhance unity and check fake news.

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, said the seminar marked a significant milestone in our collective effort to enhance our efficacy of media operations within the frameworks of Nigeria’s defence objectives.

    The CDS, who was represented by Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde, said the event was significant due to the evolution of the role of the media in modern warfare beyond its traditional scope of information dissemination.

    He said: “Today, media are integral to the execution of tactical, operational, and strategic plans and further serve as a powerful tool for shaping public perceptions and opinions while ensuring transparency and accountability among military forces.

    “The contemporary security landscape is not only characterised by conventional and asymmetric threats but also involves a battle of narrative among opposing forces. Accordingly, the information space is becoming as equally contested as the battlefield. This implies that how we communicate our mission, counter misinformation, and maintain public trust is crucial to the outcome of Joint Task Force operations.

    Read Also: Tinubu unveils LEEP platform to create 2.5m jobs

    “This is because contemporary military operations do not take place in isolation, as every action of a Joint Task Force is constantly subjected to public scrutiny. Implicitly, the way our operations are perceived by local, public, and international audiences determines their effectiveness.”

    The CDS said that while media operations offer immense strategic benefits, they also pose significant challenges, such as the rise of fake news and adversarial misinformation.

    “The 24-hour news cycle and social media demand real-time responses requiring Joint Task Force commanders to maintain constant vigilance.

    “It is on this premise that it becomes crucial that media operations be professionalised, proactive, and fully integrated into operational planning. Accordingly, commanders and media professionals must work together to ensure that the right messages are conveyed at the right time to the right audience,” the CDS said.

  • I did not dismiss Governor Zulum’s security concerns – Minister

    I did not dismiss Governor Zulum’s security concerns – Minister

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has refuted the circulating news that he dismissed the recent concerns raised by the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, regarding the security situation in the state.

    Idris noted that the report by an online publication was misleading. The minister, in a statement signed by his media aide, Mr. Rabiu Ibrahim, described the news report as false and a gross distortion of the minister’s remarks.

    Ibrahim stated that at no time did the Honourable Minister say, “Ignore Zulum, Boko Haram is not taking over Borno.” Such a headline is not only sensational but also crafted deliberately as an act of misinformation meant to incite public misunderstanding and distract from the serious work the Federal Government is doing to address security challenges.

    He explained, “In his response to media inquiries regarding Governor Zulum’s remarks, the Honourable Minister acknowledged that while the Federal Government has made significant progress in restoring peace and security across many parts of the country, some areas continue to face security challenges.

    Read Also: Tinubu, Zulum, governors and tax bills

    “He emphasised the ongoing efforts by the military and security forces, the sustained investments in security hardware and intelligence, and the federal government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism and banditry under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR).

    “The Minister further called on all stakeholders, including state governments, to continue partnering with the Federal Government to bring lasting peace to affected communities.

    “His comments were intended to provide context on the progress made, not to dismiss or downplay legitimate concerns.

    “We urge media platforms to uphold the ethics of responsible journalism by avoiding sensationalism and publishing only verified and accurate information. The task of rebuilding peace and security in our nation is a collective one that must not be undermined by reckless and irresponsible reporting.portage.”