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Tag: MOHAMMED Idris

  • We don’t need Emir Sanusi’s approval for policies – FG

    We don’t need Emir Sanusi’s approval for policies – FG

    The Federal Government has hit back at the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, saying that it does not need his stamp of approval for its laudable policies.

    The government also reminded the traditional leader that the policies were already yielding visible fruits.

    Sanusi at a public gathering on Wednesday said he would not help the government explain its policies to the people because he feels estranged from his “friends” in government. 

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris  urged the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones to prioritise the greater good of Nigerians.

    In a statement he signed, Idris expressed disappointment that Sanusi would condemn reforms widely recognised as essential by global experts—including himself because he felt alienated by friends in government.

     Idris maintained President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s mission is to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity. 

    He added that the current challenges faced in the country demand courage and collective effort, not divisive narratives. 

    He said that the administration was open to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders. 

    The statement reads: “The Federal Government notes the recent remarks by His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, at a public event in Lagos. We note the emir’s acknowledgment of the noble initiatives which, he said, he could explain away but for his decision “not to help the government”. 

    “First, we acknowledge that Sanusi, and indeed any Nigerian, has the inalienable right to express an opinion either in the form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being run. However, we find it amusing that a leader, more so one from an institution that ennobles forthrightness, fairness, and justice would publicly admit to shuffling off saying the truth because of personal interest hinged on imaginary antagonism. 

    “It is pertinent to state that Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges. This administration has implemented transformative reforms not because they are easy, but because they are essential for securing Nigeria’s long-term stability and growth, as Emir Sanusi had consistently advocated.

    “The temporary pains currently experienced from these inevitable decisions, as Sanusi himself acknowledged, are a “necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management” more than anything else.

    “These reforms are already delivering measurable progress. The unification of exchange rates has bolstered investor confidence, which has contributed to increased foreign reserves and strengthened Nigeria’s ability to shield itself from external economic shocks. The removal of the fuel subsidy has freed up significant resources, allowing for greater investment in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Projections from respected institutions, including the World Bank, show an upward trajectory in Nigeria’s GDP, signaling that our economy is firmly on the path to recovery. Additionally, by addressing inefficiencies, the country has reduced its debt service-to-revenue ratio, creating a more sustainable fiscal framework for future generations.

    “It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognized as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi II himself—are now being subtly condemned by him because of a shift in loyalty. His Highness, given his background in economics, has a unique responsibility to contribute constructively rather than undermine reforms aimed at collective progress because he feels estranged from his “friends” in government. 

    “We urge the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritize the greater good of Nigerians.

    “Rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders. As a government, we urge esteemed leaders to refrain from rhetorics that undermine public trust. Instead, they owe it a duty to champion the collective goal of a prosperous Nigeria. This is a critical time for our country, what is needed is collaboration, not unnecessary distractions.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s mission is to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity. The challenges we face demand courage and collective effort, not divisive narratives. This administration is open to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders while remaining steadfast in putting the interests of Nigerians above all else.

    “Let history record this moment as a turning point—when leaders and citizens alike, choose to prioritize the nation’s destiny over personal gain. Together, we will deliver on the promise of renewed hope and a better Nigeria for all.”

  • Minister Idris lauded for excellence in public information management

    Minister Idris lauded for excellence in public information management

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has been commended for his innovative approach to public information management in the country.

    This was disclosed by the former Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Kaduna State, Mr. Stephen Achi, in a statement issued in Kaduna.

    Mr. Achi praised the minister’s implementation of a five-point strategy designed to rebuild public trust and confidence in governance through effective communication. He noted that Minister Idris has modernised Nigeria’s media landscape and prioritised the “Nigeria first” agenda in his efforts to reform information management.

    Highlighting the recently concluded 48th National Council of Information and National Orientation, held in Kaduna, Achi described it as a milestone event reflecting the minister’s commitment to enhancing public information management.

    The conference, themed Enhancing Public Information Management for Inclusive Governance: The Renewed Hope Agenda in Focus, was seen as a step towards aligning the nation’s information policy with international standards while improving the performance of state information ministries and media outfits.

    Read Also: Mohammed Idris: One year of leading with passion and purpose

    “Minister Mohammed Idris Malagi is arguably the best-performing member of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet. His dedication, transparency, and professionalism have positioned Nigeria’s image positively on both national and international fronts,” Achi said.

    Mr. Achi, who also serves as Executive Director of an NGO, revealed plans to honour the minister for his exemplary performance, citing his rare combination of determination, honesty, and compassion as the driving forces behind his success.

    Under Minister Idris’ leadership, the Ministry of Information and National Orientation has undergone significant reforms aimed at ensuring that states without information ministries establish functional structures to meet national and international standards. These efforts, Achi concluded, will contribute to a robust democratic system and effective governance in Nigeria.

  • Idris: don’t link Tinubu reforms to stampede deaths

    Idris: don’t link Tinubu reforms to stampede deaths

    • Obi’s ‘systemic failures’ for stampede deaths uncharitable, says Omokri
    • Fed Govt condoles with victims’ families

    The Federal Government yesterday condoled with families of the victims of weekend’s stampedes in Anamabra, Abuja where no fewer than 39 people died.

    It also commiserated with the families of the kids crushed to death on Wednesday in Ibadan.

    The three disasters occurred during attempts to share palliatives to the vulnerable.

    Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, who conveyed the condolences, however, cautioned those politicising the unfortunate incidents, saying Tinubu’s reset of the economy has nothing to do with the stampedes deaths.

    Idris said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by these unfortunate incidents.”

    The minister said the tragedies were deeply saddening and underscored the importance of ensuring proper crowd management during such charitable activities, especially during the festive season.

    Acknowledging the noble intentions of organisers seeking to bring relief to vulnerable members of society, the minister admonished all individuals and organisations planning similar events to comply with the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Mr.  Kayode Egbetokun on liaising with the police formations for effective crowd control and security measures.

    According to him, collaboration with the police and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), is crucial to safeguarding lives and ensuring that such efforts to assist those in need do not inadvertently lead to further distress.

    The minister also urged politicians and other stakeholders to refrain from politicising the unfortunate incidents, stressing that those tragic events are in no way connected to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s economic reforms.

    “It is worth noting that similar unfortunate occurrences have been recorded in the past, before the current administration, as such, making any attempt to link these tragedies to the President’s reforms is unfounded and disingenuous,” he said.

    Idris added that the reforms, while repositioning the Nigerian economy for sustainable growth, are designed to uplift the lives of all Nigerians, particularly the vulnerable without causing distress.

    The minister called for a collective sense of responsibility and urged citizens to unite and ensure that the Yuletide season is marked by peace, goodwill, and joy, devoid of preventable tragedies.

    The Police in Anambra State yesterday put the death toll in the Okija tragedy at  22. Some attendees were also injured during the distribution of bags of rice by a non-profit making organisation, ObiJackson Foundation to the less-privileged on Saturday.

    The FCT Police Command as of yesterday gave no death figure on the tragedy at the venue of palliative distribution by Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama.

    PDP blames policies

    But the  PDP said the  “anti-people policies,” by the  All Progressives Congress-led government had exacerbated poverty and created widespread hunger across the nation.

    In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP said the  “anti-people policies,” including fuel subsidy removal and floating of the naira were key contributors to the nation’s economic struggles.

    It argued that the policies, combined with mismanagement and corruption, have led to a sharp decline in living standards, pushing many Nigerians into extreme hardship.

    The statement partly reads: ‘’The PDP is devastated that the APC-led administration has wrecked our once thriving economy and pushed millions of Nigerians deeper into abject poverty and hunger with many citizens, not being able to afford their daily meals, now resorting to suicide and desperate measures including slavery mission abroad and fighting for crumbs for survival.

    ‘’It is heart-breaking that despite our abundant resources as a nation, Nigerians have been subjected to agonising life where they die struggling for food.

    ‘’This horrifying situation in the country further confirms the APC as a party of “political vampires and buccaneers” who have no iota of regard for human life but rather derive pleasure in the suffering and death of citizens including innocent children.

    ‘’Only this explains why the APC administration continues in arrogant false performance claims including empty assurances of food sufficiency while deliberately failing to make the required investments to boost the productive sector, particularly in agriculture and food production.’’

    The party also criticised the APC government for failing to invest adequately in Agriculture, despite repeated calls from stakeholders, including the opposition, for measures to address food insecurity.

    It also alleged that resources meant to alleviate the suffering of citizens have been misappropriated, citing claims of palliative mismanagement and inflated government contracts.

    Mourning the victims of the stampedes, the PDP hailed Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for providing medical assistance to those injured in the Ibadan stampede.

    Read Also: Counting the gains of Tinubu’s economic renewal

    It called for a probe into the incidents and extended condolences to the victims’ families in Okija and Abuja.  

    Buhari condoles with Tinubu

    Former President Buhari condoled with President Tinubu over the stampedes.

    Buhari, in a message yesterday, also expressed sympathy to Governors Makinde and Soludo as well as Wike and the Catholic community on the tragedies.

    He also wished those injured in the stampedes speedy recovery.

    Buhari further extended his warm wishes to Nigerians on the occasion of Christmas and called on Christians to recall the noble teachings of Jesus Christ.

    In his message to Tinubu, Governors Makinde, Soludo and victims’ families, Alia said he was saddened by the incidents

    Soludo: probe begins

    Soludo said yesterday that an investigation into the Okija stampede had commenced.

    Describing the incident as regrettable, Soludo extended his condolences to the families of the deceased unfortunate incident.

    “The Anambra State Government in prompt action on the incident has initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede,’’ the governor said.

    He assured that “the government will work closely with relevant agencies to determine the root causes of this unfortunate event and ensure that any negligence or lapses in safety protocols are duly addressed.’’

    Soludo, according to the statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, implored all well-meaning individuals and organisations engaged in charitable activities to prioritise the safety and well-being of beneficiaries.

    CAN decries deaths

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) described the stampedes as tragic.

    It called on Nigerians to support those who were affected.   

    “The national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is disturbed by the tragic events at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama on Saturday morning. We have learned that at least 10  people, including children, lost their lives in a stampede while trying to seek help from the church,’’ said the association   President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh.

    CAN added: “This tragedy is not just statistics; it represents real families who are hurting. Each person lost was someone’s beloved family member. We wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church and to the families affected by this terrible incident.”

  • Tinubu’s vision for the livestock sector will unlock vast potential – Minister 

    Tinubu’s vision for the livestock sector will unlock vast potential – Minister 

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s vision for the country’s economic growth and development. 

    Idris who spoke at the Annual Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria’s Annual Lecture with the theme “Food Security in Nigeria: Which Way Forward” described the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development as a game-changing move by the president to unlock the sector’s vast potential and maximize its value chains.

    “Most recently, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), took a bold and transformative step by establishing and operationalizing a dedicated Ministry for Livestock Development. 

    “This strategic move underscores the administration’s recognition of the immense potential within the livestock sector, often referred to as an untapped gold mine.

    “Nigeria, blessed with vast arable land, favourable climatic conditions, and a youthful population, has the potential to be a global agricultural powerhouse. Yet, we face significant challenges in attaining affordability and self-sufficiency in food production. 

    Read Also: President Tinubu committed to Nigeria’s growth – aide

    “This ongoing challenge is what has informed the special attention that the President is paying to this very important sector, which happens to be the biggest employer of labour in the country,” he stated. 

    The minister highlighted that, early in his administration, President Tinubu launched three critical agricultural interventions: declaring a State of Emergency on food insecurity, initiating a food security and sustainability intervention project, and cracking down on hoarders, smugglers, and saboteurs to ensure affordability, availability, and accessibility of essential commodities.

    “Nigeria’s path to food security is not insurmountable, particularly through our collective resolve; we can transform our nation into a land of abundance, where no Nigerian goes to bed hungry.

    “I am confident that the Guest Lecturer and esteemed panelists will provide a comprehensive analysis of the challenges facing Nigeria’s agricultural sector and offer practical solutions,” he said. 

    The Minister therefore, stressed the critical role of the media in promoting food security in this country, especially in raising awareness and educating farmers on modern techniques, climate change adaptability as well as various government interventions available to help increase their yields. 

    Idris also commended the Director General of the FRCN, Dr. Mohammed Bulama and the management to reviving the Annual Lecture series as a platform for intellectual discourse on matters of national importance, which is on line with the mantra of the corporation of “Uplifting the People and Uniting the Nation.”

    “True to its slogan of “Uplifting the People and Uniting the Nation,” the FRCN has consistently demonstrated its commitment to national development, not only through its dynamic and compelling programming but also through impactful initiatives such as this Annual Lecture, which brings stakeholders together for meaningful discourse,” he said.

    The event was attended by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Muktar, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, the Emir of Wase in Plateau State, Alhaji Muhammadu Sambo Haruna among other dignitaries.

  • Minister to Nigerians: better year ahead

    Minister to Nigerians: better year ahead

    Nigerians were yesterday assured by Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris that next year would be great because the ongoing reforms by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu were already yielding positive results. 

    “There’s no doubt, I assure you, that year 2025  will consolidate Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda reforms, which is already yielding good results in different facets of our socio-economic and political life’’ Idris said. 

    He spoke at a management retreat organised by the Voice Of Nigeria(VON), a government news agency in Abuja yesterday.

    The retreat theme was “VON in the 21st Century: Restrategising for Global Impact.”

    The minister challenged broadcasters of his ministry to project match the Tunubu administration’s success stories by keeping up with pace and expectations of the government. 

    Read Also: Ogun 2027 and the cacophony of voices

    His words: “At a time like this, a phase in which our dear country is also undergoing a strategic socio-economic turn-around under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on their part, public broadcasters under the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, are certainly expected to match the pace and expectations of government in projecting our success stories,” 

    Idris stated that President Tinubu was pursuing an ambitious fiscal reform agenda designed to allocate more resources to states and local governments in line with the principles of true federalism.

    The minister specifically charged Voice of Nigeria (VON), the nation’s external broadcaster, to tell the world of Nigeria’s newfound road to economic recovery and a remerging regional and international economic and political powerhouse.

    He said: “VON must be able to tell the world that Nigeria is working again; that we are winning the war on terrorism, banditry, and ethnic warlords that seemed to define us lately; that we are renergising our population towards sustainable productivity; that our young population has a clearer path to quality tertiary education through the National Education Loans Fund (NELFund), and importantly, that our nation is going through an energy transition phase that will guarantee more sustainable electricity and gas to power our homes and machinery.

    “It is important that through the deliberate reportage of news and analysis on Nigeria to international audiences, no gaps are left in the curating of our nation’s gradual road to greatness.”  

    Idris promised that the government would continue leveraging VON’s information assets to combat fake news, disinformation, and misinformation targeting the nation at the international stage.

    He emphasised that for media organisations such as VON to remain competitive in the global media landscape, it must leverage emerging digital technologies to enhance the quality and reach of their content.

     VON’s Director-General   Jibrin Baba Ndace   said   the retreat  “serves as a moment to reflect, to celebrate our progress, and to chart a course for a future where Voice of Nigeria (VON) resonates not only within our nation but also across global borders.”

    He also said that the agency would continue to collaborate with local and international media organisations to advance positive narratives for Africa, underscoring the fact that Nigeria remains a beacon of heritage, strength, and opportunity.

      “As we embark on this retreat, I encourage each of you to share your ideas and insights openly. Together, we will define a clear path for VON’s future, keeping in mind,’’ the theme of the retreat.

  • Minister assures Nigerians of promising year 2025, says Tinubu’s reforms yielding good results

    Minister assures Nigerians of promising year 2025, says Tinubu’s reforms yielding good results

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, assured Nigerians on Tuesday that the year ahead holds promise for better prospects. 

    Speaking at a management retreat in Abuja organised by the Voice of Nigeria, a government news agency, Idris emphasized that the reforms implemented by the administration of President Bola Tinubu are already yielding positive results.

    He said: “There’s no doubt, I assure you, that the year 2025, will consolidate Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda reforms, which is already yielding good results in different facets of our socio-economic and political life.

    “At a time like this, a phase in which our dear country is also undergoing a strategic socio-economic turn-around under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on their part, public broadcasters under the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, are certainly expected to match the pace and expectations of government in projecting our success stories,” he said. 

    Idris stated that President Tinubu is pursuing an ambitious fiscal reform agenda designed to allocate more resources to state and local governments, and ultimately to the Nigerian people, in line with the principles of true federalism.

    The minister specifically charged VON, as the nation’s external broadcaster to tell the world of Nigeria’s newfound road to economic recovery and a remerging regional and international economic and political powerhouse.

    Read Also: Minister, others hail Adebayo on housing sector

    “The Voice of Nigeria must be able to tell the world that Nigeria is working again; that we are winning the war on terrorism, banditry, and ethnic warlords that seemed to define us lately; that we are renergising our population towards sustainable productivity; that our young population has a clearer path to quality tertiary education through the National Education Loans (NEL) Fund, and importantly, that our nation is going through an energy transition phase that will guarantee more sustainable electricity and gas to power our homes and machinery.

    “It is important that through the deliberate reportage of news and analysis on Nigeria to international audiences, no gaps are left in the curating of our nation’s gradual road to greatness,” he said. 

    The Minister said the government will continue to leverage the information assets of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) to combat the threats of fake news, disinformation, and misinformation targeting the nation on the international stage.

    Idris emphasized that for media organizations such as Voice of Nigeria (VON) to remain competitive in the crowded global media landscape, they must leverage emerging digital technologies to enhance the quality and reach of their content, ensuring relevance in an ever-evolving world.

     Director General of VON, Malam Jibrin Baba Ndace,  said that the gathering “serves as a moment to reflect, to celebrate our progress, and to chart a course for a future where Voice of Nigeria (VON) resonates not only within our nation but also across global borders.”

    He also said that the agency  will continue to collaborate with local and international media organizations to advance positive narratives for Africa, underscoring the fact that Nigeria remains a beacon of heritage, strength, and opportunity.

    He added: “As we embark on this retreat, I encourage each of you to share your ideas and insights openly. Together, we will define a clear path for VON’s future, keeping in mind our theme, “VON in the 21st Century: Restrategizing for Global Impact.” This theme embodies our commitment to innovate, strengthen our digital and broadcast presence, and engage our audiences at every level.”

  • Minister commends IPI, NUJ on successful election, calls for responsible journalism

    Minister commends IPI, NUJ on successful election, calls for responsible journalism

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Sunday, commended the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) for the smooth and successful conduct of their elections.

    The minister in a statement signed by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim stated:  “I wish to congratulate Messrs Muskilu Mojeed, Chief Executive Officer of Premium Times, and Ahmed Shekarau, Managing Director of Media Trust, who were re-elected as President and Secretary, respectively, as well as the re-election of four other officers of IPI Nigeria,”

    The minister also lauded the peaceful transition of leadership within the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), which led to the emergence of Malam Alhassan Yahaya as President.

    Read Also: Children malnutrition: FG moves to reverse Nigeria’s top global, continental ranking

    He said the election of the new leadership of the NUJ, including Mr. Yahaya as President and Abimbola Oyetunde as the first female Deputy National President, reflects the evolving dynamics and inclusivity within the union, affirming its status as a leading professional body in Nigeria.

    The Minister further called on both the IPI and NUJ to continue promoting ethical and responsible journalism.

    “As defenders of truth, the media must prioritize integrity and accountability in their work. I encourage both unions to ensure that their members uphold the highest standards of journalism for the betterment of our democracy.”

    Minister Idris also pledged that the government remains fully committed to upholding press freedom. “We will continue to protect the fundamental rights of the press, ensuring a conducive environment for free, fair, and responsible journalism to thrive in Nigeria.”

    The International Press Institute (IPI) is a global network of journalists, editors, and media executives dedicated to defending press freedom, promoting independent journalism, and advancing media pluralism worldwide.

  • Minister to governors: don’t downgrade, scrap ministries of information 

    Minister to governors: don’t downgrade, scrap ministries of information 

    Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Friday, said that the information ministries are not just administrative bodies but key drivers of public engagement, national orientation, and societal cohesion. 

    Idris, therefore appealed to some state governments considering  the dissolution or downgrading of their Ministries of Information to reconsider the decision.

    Idris made the appeal in Kaduna at the 48th National Council of Information and National Orientation with the theme “Enhancing Public Information Management for Inclusive Governance: The Renewed Hope Agenda in Focus.”

    He said: “At this juncture, I would want to make a passionate appeal to some of our state governments, especially on the status and operations of State Ministries of Information. 

    “And my plea, for emphasis, goes like this: that, in the ever-broadening parameters of governance, the role of Ministries of Information at both the national and state levels cannot be overstated. These Ministries serve as the bridge between government policies and the citizens they are designed to benefit, thereby fostering transparency, accountability, and trust, which are essential pillars of any thriving democracy.

    “The Ministry of Information plays a critical role in public sensitization. Through this institution, and the platforms associated with it, governments are able to educate citizens on policies, programmes, and initiatives. They also serve as vital platforms for addressing misinformation, which, if left unchecked, can erode public trust and undermine collective progress. In an era where information is both a tool and a weapon, having a dedicated body to manage its dissemination is indispensable,” he said. 

    Speaking on the theme of the Council, the Minister said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, is a clarion call for transformational leadership at all levels and people-oriented governance, which is firmly anchored on the time-honoured principle that governance must be inclusive, transparent, and centered on improving the lives of Nigerians.

    Idris said the essence of governance lies in its ability to connect, communicate, and inspire collective action, hence information management is not merely a tool of administration but the lifeblood of democracy and development. 

    He said with a multiplicity of ethnic groups, languages, and religions in Nigeria, ensuring that every citizen feels heard, informed, and included in the governance process, requires deliberate efforts, especially by Information Managers.

    Read Also: Debates on tax reform bills vital for democratic governance – Idris

    The Minister advised that to foster inclusion in policy formulation, information managers should leverage technology to enhance the speed, accuracy, and reach of their messaging while also integrating artificial intelligence for better audience engagement and feedback analysis.

    He equally said gendering Public Debate for policy refinement and alignment with public aspirations is a necessary component of promoting public participation in the decision-making process. 

    “In every democracy, the strength of governance is deeply rooted in its ability to reflect the will and aspirations of the people. Public policies, while crafted with the best intentions, must continuously evolve to meet the dynamic needs and expectations of the citizens they serve. It is within this context that public debate plays a pivotal role.

    “For instance, you are all aware that we are currently witnessing robust debates on the Tax Reforms proposed by President Tinubu. Such debates are necessary in policy formulation and implementation in order to foster a transparent exchange of ideas, where citizens, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders can voice their opinions, and provide constructive feedback on the reform proposal of the President,” he said. 

    The Minister added that countering Misinformation and Fake News remains critical in information management, emphasizing that fake news poses a significant threat to governance and public trust. 

    He called for the provision of the necessary skills for information officers to employ fact-checking mechanisms, as well as seek collaboration with media organizations, and enhance public awareness campaigns to combat misinformation.

    In addition to that, he said, President Tinubu recently approved the release of funds for the immediate operationalization of the UNESCO Category-2 Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Institute, the first of its kind in the world, and embedded in the precincts of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Abuja, to equip people with the tools to discern between credible sources and misinformation. 

    “In an era where fake news, propaganda, and biased reporting can significantly influence public opinion and decision-making, media literacy fosters critical thinking. It helps individuals analyze the intent behind media messages, understand the context in which they are presented, and assess their accuracy and relevance.

    “I will therefore urge the Commissioners for Information to take advantage of this very important Institute once it takes off, in order to further build the capacity of our staff in combating the menace of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation,” he said.

    The 48th National Council of Information and National Orientation was declared open by the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani.

  • Debates on tax reform bills vital for democratic governance – Idris

    Debates on tax reform bills vital for democratic governance – Idris

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasized the importance of the ongoing debates on the Tax Reform Bills, describing them as vital components of democratic governance.

    Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the management of the Progressives Institute, led by its Director General, Dr. Lanre Adedayo, Idris highlighted the inseparability of policy formulation and public discourse.

    According to a statement by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, the minister underscored the need for constructive engagement with stakeholders and the public, noting that such interactions ensure government policies are aligned with the needs and aspirations of citizens.

    “Let’s take the Tax Reform for example, that has generated so much debate with some people saying that the debate is against government policy or the President and I tend to disagree. I think that these are healthy debates that all of us are having so that we can make this bill better. For anyone who thinks that debate and putting out policy are mutually exclusive, I think that’s wrong. 

    “There will always be the opportunity to have a healthy debate so that whatever government puts forward, can be made better. In any case, this is being done for the benefit of all Nigerians. Therefore, Nigerians have the democratic right to interrogate government policies, provided the commentaries are healthy and are geared towards making the policies better,” he said.

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    He emphasized that the Tax Reform proposed by the President, is not intended to place any part of the country at a disadvantage, rather, it is designed to promote inclusive growth and stimulate economic activities across the nation, in line with President Tinubu’s commitment to equitable development and prosperity for all Nigerians.

    The Minister, therefore, encouraged Nigerians to actively participate in discussions on government policies, as their contributions are invaluable in strengthening the nation’s democratic process.

    Idris said the reforms that the President instituted are bold and tough but the surest way to fulfill his campaign promise of promoting progress and prosperity for all Nigerians.

    “Reforms are usually tough, usually hard, but once they are followed through, they deliver extraordinary results and we know that the direction that this government is going, we are extremely confident that all the reform processes that Mr. President has instituted, will take us to the desired destination,” he stated.

    Idris expressed delight that so far, Nigerians are beginning to see the benefits of the reforms, especially through the recent positive indices provided by the National Bureau of Statistics on the performance of the economy.

    He commended the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, for setting up the Progressives Institute, highlighting that it’s envisioned to serve as the intellectual engine room of the party and the government through research on policies and programmes to be implemented or being implemented by the administration.

    In his remarks, the Director General, Dr. Adedayo, said for the first time in the history of political parties in Nigeria, the APC floated the Institute to serve as a think-tank and provide the intellectual foundation for capacity building, leadership recruitment, and research on policies of the administration. 

    He sought the support of the Minister for the forthcoming conference being organized by the Institute on skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and challenges of development in the country.

    Dr. Adedayo commended the Minister for his strategic and effective approach to communicating the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration, noting that it is neither combative nor reactionary.

  • 10 things to note about Tinubu’s Tax Reform, by Mohammed Idris

    10 things to note about Tinubu’s Tax Reform, by Mohammed Idris

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has listed ten commitments of President Tinubu on the Tax reform bills.

    According to the minister, President Tinubu, who is committed to accountability on tax bills, has directed the Federal Ministry of Justice to work with the National Assembly on concerns.

    He said the president will always act in the interest of the Nigerian people.

    Here are 10 things to understand about Tax reform bills

    1. The robust nationwide debate on the new tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly is welcomed, and commendable. It is very inspiring to see Nigerians from all walks of life coming out to express their views and opinions of these matters of critical national importance. This is the very essence and meaning of democracy.

    2. I call on all commentators and groups to keep up the spirit of informed engagement and to strive to be respectful and understanding at all times despite the diversity of opinions. In the spirit of democratic engagement, there should be no room for name-calling, or for the injection of unnecessary ethnic and regional slurs into this important national conversation.

    3. Similarly, it is important to be aware that there is a lot of misinformation and fake news circulating around the tax bills and the overall reform agenda of the Tinubu Administration. The fiscal reforms will not impoverish any State or region of the country, nor will they lead to the scrapping or weakening of any federal agencies.

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    4. Instead, they will bring relief to tens of millions of hardworking Nigerians across the country and empower and position our States and the 774 Local Governments for sustainable growth and development.

    5. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is implementing an ambitious fiscal reform agenda that will devolve more resources to Nigeria’s State and Local Governments, and ultimately to the Nigerian people, in the spirit of harnessing democracy that works for the people.

    6. It is pertinent to state that the government has nothing sinister to warrant the suggestion that the process is being rushed. In line with the established legislative procedure, the Federal General welcomes meaningful inputs that can address whatever grey areas there may be in the bill. In this vein, President Tinubu has already directed the Federal Ministry of Justice and relevant officials who worked on the drafts to work closely with the National Assembly to ensure that all genuine concerns have been addressed before the bills are passed.

    7. We are indeed witnessing, at this moment in the history of Nigeria, the most far-reaching, impactful and beneficial set of fiscal reforms that Nigeria has seen in decades.

    8. In addition to the four tax bills being debated and deliberated upon, there is also the 2023 Supreme Court ruling on financial autonomy for local governments, which will significantly empower the tier of government that is closest to the Nigerian people.

    9. In all, these reforms will not only facilitate increased revenues (without imposing additional tax burdens on the people), they will also make it possible for citizens to demand and enjoy greater accountability in the management of public resources at all levels of government. President Tinubu and the administration will continue to champion policies that close the loopholes and gaps through which Nigeria’s valuable public resources have been frittered away for decades.

    10. On top of this necessary foundation, the resources being conserved and realized from these reforms will be invested in critical infrastructure (healthcare, education, transportation, digital technology, etc) and in social investments that will benefit all Nigerians and ensure that no one is left behind. This is the promise and the reality of the Renewed Hope agenda.