Tag: MOHAMMED Idris

The Federal Government is fully in control of the security situation of the country despite pockets of attacks, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said last night.

Reacting to cries by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum that terrorism had heightened in his state, Idris said sub-nationals should join hands with the Federal Government in its effort to eradicate banditry and terrorism.

The minister said: “Yes security is indeed improving in many parts of the country even if acts of violence have not been completely eradicated.

“Security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the situation in some parts of Borno State and others are brought under control.

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“The synergy we have seen in the operations of security agencies, especially in the last two years and the massive investment in hardware and other equipment indicate the seriousness of which the Federal Government attaches to this issue.

“The Tinubu Administration is committed to eradicating acts of banditry and terrorism across the country.

“The successes achieved by the security agencies in the last 18 months is an indication that indeed Nigeria is gradually returning to normalcy.

“Government calls on all, especially the subnational governments to join hands to ensure rapid eradication of the remaining pockets of criminal elements wherever they may be.

The federal government has endorsed a film documentary chronicling Nigeria’s 25 years of uninterrupted democracy.

The project, spearheaded by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), has received the backing of the Ministry of Information and National Orientation. 

Minister Mohammed Idris expressed the ministry’s support while receiving IPAC executives in Abuja.

According to a statement signed by Dr. Suleiman Haruna, Director of Press, Public Relations, and Protocols, the documentary aims to celebrate Nigeria’s democratic achievements, acknowledge challenges, and highlight key lessons learned over the past 25 years.

“It pleases me to acknowledge the untiring efforts of IPAC and its leadership in fostering democracy, and in this regard, through the medium of film which will serve as a long-lasting historical record in honouring our nation’s political heroes, and the showcasing of our democratic credentials. To this end, the federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, is willing to support this unique documentary,” said Idris. 

Idris also expressed his gratitude to the IPAC for their dedication to democratic development and emphasized the importance of political parties working together beyond elections to foster national unity and progress.

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“The government of President Bola Ahmed Tunubu is in support of healthy political competition, as democracy thrives on constructive opposition and national interest-driven collaboration irrespective of party affiliations,” Idris posited.

He added that while the sustaining of democracy is a collective effort, “Political parties are the foundation of democracy; and while competition during elections is natural, we must come together afterward to build our nation. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, being a true democrat, values healthy competition but also prioritizes unity and national progress.”

The national chairman of IPAC, Honourable Yusuf Dantatlle, in his response, said the documentary will showcase advancements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social cohesion. 

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“The documentary, in addition to being a historical marker, targets the younger generation, particularly Gen Z, as the film will serve as an educational resource and a unifying narrative of Nigeria’s democratic evolution. It will feature some of Nollywood’s finest actors and will be produced with state-of-the-art equipment, matching global standards of quality and impact,” Honourable Dantalle said.

The IPAC delegation consisted of Dipo Olayokun, Deputy National Chairman, Chief Dan Nwayanwu, Council Member, and Maxwell Mabudem, National Secretary, amongst other executives. 

Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris did an appraisal of the economic policies introduced at the dawn of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

He concluded that the unintended pains are gradually easing out. Nigeria, the minister noted, “has crossed the Rubicon.”

Idris identified the reduction in costs of food items and exchange rate stability as proof that the Tinubu reforms were yielding positive results.

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

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

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

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

He said: “We have crossed the Rubicon, and the pains are gradually easing as the positive impact of these reforms begins to manifest.

“Already, we are witnessing a marked reduction in food prices, stability in exchange rates, and a gradual decline in the cost of petroleum products, which are clear indicators that the reforms are yielding positive results.

“Our country stands at a critical juncture as President Tinubu implements bold and transformative reforms to lay the foundation for a new Nigeria.

“Across the world, history has shown that meaningful reforms are never easy; they demand sacrifice, resilience, and a commitment to long-term progress.

“The initial pains that often accompany these changes are the necessary price for a more stable and prosperous future.

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

“I want to urge our Muslim and Christian leaders, particularly during this period of fasting and reflection, to continue to pray for Nigeria’s success.

“With unity, faith, and collective effort, we will emerge stronger, more resilient, and positioned for lasting prosperity.”

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris on Sunday expressed sadness over the death of veteran journalist and former Secretary-General of the African Public Relations Association (APRA), Mallam Kabir Dangogo.     

Idris in a statement described Dagogo’s death as a great loss to Nigeria and the broader African communications community.

The statement personally  signed by the Minister personally: “I am deeply saddened by Mallam Kabir Dangogo’s passing. He was a veteran journalist, award-winning public relations practitioner, and former Secretary-General of the African Public Relations Association (APRA).     

“His demise is a great loss to Nigeria and the broader African communications community. Death has robbed Nigeria of a consummate professional whose dedication to service, excellence in journalism, and transformative contributions to public relations set a benchmark for many in the industry. 

“Through his work, he elevated the practice of public relations in Africa, championing ethical standards, professional development, and cross-border collaboration in the field.

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“Mallam Dangogo was a mentor, leader, and visionary, who played a pivotal role in shaping the public relations landscape in Nigeria and across the continent. 

“His tenure at APRA was marked by an unshakable commitment to fostering dialogue, innovation, and professionalism in communication and reputation management.

“On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire media and public relations community. I pray to God to grant him eternal rest and give his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss.

“May his legacy continue to inspire future generations of journalists and public relations practitioners.”

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has disclosed that the government will look into the recent cancellation of the e-visa and Visa-on-Arrival options for Nigerian travellers by the Ethiopian government.

This is as the Minister canvassed for a more liberal visa regime for Nigerian companies seeking to establish factories and businesses in foreign countries.

The Minister, according to a statement made the call in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Sunday when he represented President Bola Tinubu at a meeting with the executive members of the Nigerian Community in Ethiopia, on the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government.

The Minister was also quoted in the statement signed by his media aide, Mr. Rabiu Ibrahim, to have told Nigerians in Ethiopia that the visa issue would be escalated to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for appropriate diplomatic engagement.

“While acknowledging the concerns raised by Nigerians in Ethiopia, the Minister emphasized that visa policies among nations are typically based on the principle of reciprocity.

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“He noted that governments often implement visa regulations in response to the policies extended to their citizens, highlighting the need for balanced and mutually beneficial agreements in international travel and diplomacy.

“Every relationship with other countries is reciprocal. So if we give them Visa-on-Arrival, there is no reason why they should not give us Visa-on-Arrival,” he said.

The minister explained that as Nigeria continues to provide an enabling environment for foreign companies to invest and operate within its borders, it is only fair and mutually beneficial for other nations to extend similar support to Nigerian businesses looking to expand internationally.

“Last year, I was representing Nigeria in Indonesia and found out that about 50 big Indonesian companies are operating in Nigeria but we do not have five Nigerian companies operating in Indonesia. If they want to come to our country to trade because of our population and ability to purchase their goods and services, then there should also be that reciprocal arrangement where Nigerians are also given the rightful place; and the visa issue is the same problem you find in Ethiopia and Indonesia. It becomes very complex for people to give Nigerians visas,” he said.

The Minister therefore urged Nigerians living abroad to consistently demonstrate good conduct and responsible citizenship to promote the image of the country to the outside world.

“We don’t allow bad people to represent us and that’s where you come in. You are the ones who are here and if you don’t represent us well, there is no way we will look good. The visit of the President to Ethiopia from time to time or the visit of any minister here cannot do it. It is those who are here and living with them that can change whatever perception they have about our country,” he said.

The Minister used the occasion to inform the Nigerian community about the policy direction of the Tinubu Administration, stressing that a lot has been achieved in revamping the economy, provision of infrastructure, curbing insecurity, and the restoration of investor confidence in Nigeria.

Idris said Nigeria has recently secured approximately $1.07 billion in Foreign Direct Investment for the establishment of drug and pharmaceutical manufacturing industries.

He emphasised that this significant investment marks the beginning of Nigeria’s medical industrialization by positioning the country as a key player in pharmaceutical production to enhance local drug manufacturing capacity, reduce dependency on imports, create jobs, and strengthen the nation’s healthcare sector.

The Minister said in less than 250 days, about N32 billion has been disbursed to students under the Students Loan Scheme to ensure that no student is denied access to quality education due to lack of funds.

Idris, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling security challenges head-on, disclosed that in 2024 alone, security forces neutralized 8,000 terrorists and bandits, rescued 8,000 kidnapped victims, and recorded 11,600 arrests.

The Minister stated that the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, once notorious for criminal activities, has now been successfully cleared of criminal elements, noting that the improved security along the route has brought significant relief to commuters.

Idris said reform is usually a very difficult task but there is a gradual progression towards prosperity for all as promised by the President.

In his remarks, the President of the Nigerian Community in Ethiopia, Mr. Muideen Alimi, said part of their work plan is to collaborate with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission to organize a workshop on enhancing economic development through intra-African trade.

He urged Nigeria to support the actualization of the plan to set up the African Central Bank as well as have a strong presence in the African Remittance Agency.

The meeting was attended by the Director General of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and other top government officials.

The Federal Government has cautioned individuals against storing explosive devices in their homes for illegal mining activities.

It said such a practice posed grave risks to lives and property.

Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris gave the warning yesterday during a condolence visit to Sabon Pegi, Niger State, where a dynamite killed many people and destroyed properties on Monday.

A statement in Abuja by his Special Assistant (Media), Rabiu Ibrahim, said Idris was accompanied by Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago; former governor and senator representing Niger North, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello; and House of Assembly Speaker Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji, among other top-ranking officials.

The minister stressed the need to halt the storing of explosives at home, saying President Bola Tinubu had ordered the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to reorganise the sector to curb illegalities.

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“These tragedies are man-made, and we cannot allow them to continue. The President has directed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to intensify campaigns and advocacy efforts, particularly targeting those engaged in illegal mining,” he said.

Idris called the people’s attention to the recent surge in mining-related disasters across the country, stressing that the government would take decisive action to prevent recurrences.

“This is happening too often, and the President is deeply saddened. He has mandated the NOA to ramp up its public awareness campaigns, especially in rural communities, to avert a recurrence,” he added.

Lauding Niger State government’s swift response, Idris announced that the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, alongside the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), had been directed to provide immediate relief and support to the victims of the explosion.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, had said the deadly explosion was caused by the illegal stockpiling of explosives by a resident, Yushua Maikampala.

Information Minister Mohammed Idris said that eight of the injured victims passed yesterday.

He spoke during his visit to the Suleja General Hospital.

He explained that the visit, in company with his Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation counterpart Nentawe Yilwatda and some directors of Federal Government media outfits, was ordered by President Bola Tinubu.

He said: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deeply saddened by what has happened. He asked us to come here to see the situation.

‘’We have just gone round the wards and we have seen those that are very critically injured and as we were visiting, one of them passed on and we were told that that was the eighth victim of the fire explosion that passed on today (yesterday).

“What we are seeing is a dire need of emergency medical attention, which the Federal Government is taking.’’

Idris added that “the Minister of Health( Alli Pate),  the National Emergency Management Agency, and all agencies of government will ensure that all the hospitalised victims are immediately evacuated and taken to the Intensive Care Units of the immediate available tertiary institutions.” 

Idris commended the Niger State government for its swift response to the incident, especially in the provision of emergency medical response.

He expressed concern over the loss of approximately 265 lives to tanker explosions in the past five months in the country.

Idris disclosed that a committee has been raised to investigate the root and immediate causes of tanker explosions.

The committee, according to him, comprises representatives of Information and Humanitarian Affairs ministries as well as other critical stakeholders like the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Standard Organisation of Nigeria, Federal Road Safety Commission, etc.

He said: “The President is saddened by what has happened and he is worried to the extent that he has said that a high-powered committee be set up to look at these incidences.

“If you put these figures together, you will see that over 265 people have so far lost their lives in this kind of incident.

“The government is very worried and as a result, set up a committee to investigate the incidents.‘’

The minister said in line with the recent presidential directive, the National Orientation Agency  (NOA) will intensify public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the dangers of scooping petroleum products, following fuel tanker accidents to avert such incidents.

He condemned the practice of individuals endangering their lives by attempting to scoop fuel from accident scenes.

The federal government has ordered the immediate transfer of victims of the recent tanker explosion in Suleja, Niger state, from the General Hospital to tertiary health facilities to ensure they receive advanced medical care.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known during a visit to Suleja, Niger State. He led a high-level federal delegation, including the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, and heads of relevant agencies, to assess the situation firsthand and express condolences to the government and people of Niger State.

In a statement, Idris conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s deep sorrow over the tragic incident, which occurred along Dikko Junction in Suleja.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deeply saddened by what has happened. He asked us to come here to see the situation. We have just gone round the wards and we have seen those that are very critically injured and as we are visiting, one of them unfortunately passed on and we were told that this is the eighth victim of the fire explosion that has just passed on today and what we are seeing is the dire need of emergency medical attention, which the federal government is taking.

“The Minister of Heath and the National Emergency Management Agency and all agencies of government will ensure that all these victims are immediately evacuated and taken to the Intensive Care Unit of the immediate available tertiary institutions,” he said.

Idris commended the Niger State Government for its swift response to the incident, especially in the provision of emergency medical response. 

The Minister expressed concern over the loss of approximately 265 lives to tanker explosions in the past five months. 

He revealed that the President has constituted a committee to investigate the root and immediate causes of these incidents and to recommend effective solutions to prevent future occurrences.

“The President is really saddened by what has happened and he is worried to the extent that he has said that a high powered committee is set up to look at this incidences. From September last year to this time, we had four of this major incidences. We had the first one between Ibadan and Ife where a tanker exploded and houses and cars were engulfed in fire and about a day after, here in Niger State in Agaie, about 48 persons lost their lives. This is on the eighth of September, 2024.

“Not long afterwards, on the 15th of October, again in 2024, about 144 people also lost their lives in Jigawa State in a similar incident and now only yesterday, here at a junction, nearly 80 people lost their lives.

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“If you put this figures together, you will see that over 265 people have so far lost their lives in this kind of incident. The Government is very worried and as a result of that, set up a committee comprising the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, other critical stakeholders like NEMA, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Standard Organisation of Nigeria, Federal Road Safety Commission, NARTO, NUPENG, IPMAN and all other stakeholders to come together to find the remote and immediate causes of this and how to avoid recurrence,” he said.

The Minister stated that, in line with the recent presidential directive, the National Orientation Agency will intensify public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the dangers of scooping petroleum products following fuel tanker accidents to avert such incidents.

He condemned the practice of individuals endangering their lives by attempting to scoop fuel from accident tankers, emphasizing that such actions are unacceptable to the government.

The delegation earlier paid a condolence visit to the Emir of Suleija, Alhaji Auwal Ibrahim and also visited victims of the inferno in the Suleija General Hospital as well as the scene of the incident.

Other members of the delegation are the Directors General of the Nigerian Television Authority, Comrade Abdulhamid Dembos, Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace and Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Dr. Mohammed Bulama.