The Federal Government of Nigeria has called on media organisations across the country to give greater prominence to stories that highlight the nation’s achievements, inspire hope, and promote national unity.
​Speaking on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the National Press Centre, Radio House, Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, emphasized that while constructiveness and critical reporting remain vital to a thriving democracy, journalism should not focus exclusively on negativity and criticism.
​Addressing veteran journalists, guild editors, media executives, and civil society representatives, Minister Mohammed Idris highlighted the crucial role news media plays in shaping international perception and fostering internal cohesion.
​”The media carries a special responsibility to promote informed public discourse anchored on facts, verification, and national cohesion,” Idris stated. “While holding public officials accountable is a cornerstone of democracy, press coverage must also reflect the remarkable strides, economic progress, and resilient spirit of the Nigerian people. Journalism should inspire and build, not perpetually divide or discourage.”
​The Minister noted that unyielding focus on sensationalism and negative narratives creates undue public despondency, discourages foreign direct investment, and obscures major milestones achieved under current economic and infrastructural reforms.
​Echoing similar sentiments, Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry, outlined government initiatives aimed at fostering transparent communication channels between public institutions and press outlets.
Editors and media proprietors were urged to allocate fair coverage to socio-economic developments, agricultural advancements, tech innovations, and infrastructure improvements.
Media platforms were advised against giving undue publicity to subversive groups, bandits, and fake news merchants whose primary aim is to undermine public safety and national harmony. Journalists were encouraged to leverage open government data portals and government press centers to verify facts before publication to curb misinformation.
​The government reaffirmed its commitment to upholding freedom of the press and protecting journalists, assuring media professionals that constructive criticism will always be welcomed as a driver for good governance.
