The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on media professionals in Northern Nigeria to uphold ethical, balanced and responsible journalism.

Mr Idris, who made the call at the inaugural Arewa media summit in Kano on Monday, said the region’s future would be shaped not only by development projects but also by the stories told about its people and its potential.

The minister said this in a statement signed by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, and made available in Abuja on Monday.

Mr Idris, while delivering the keynote address, said, “The future of Northern Nigeria will not be determined only by the quality of our roads, our farms or our industries. It will also be shaped by the quality of our ideas and the stories we tell about ourselves.”

According to him, the media remains one of the most powerful forces for shaping public opinion, attracting investment, preserving culture, strengthening democracy and promoting national unity.

He said the theme of the summit was ‘Government-Citizen Accord: Accountability, Responsibility and Ethical Media Practice.’

“The theme reminds us that democracy works best when government is accountable, citizens participate responsibly, and the media performs its constitutional role with professionalism, fairness and integrity. These are partners in building a peaceful, prosperous and united Nigeria,” he said.

He added that while digital technology had created new opportunities for communication and economic growth, it had also increased the spread of misinformation and disinformation.

“Falsehood often travels faster than truth. That is why professional journalism has never been more important. Credible journalism must continue to stand for accuracy, fairness, verification and responsibility,” he stated.

Mr Idris reaffirmed the Tinubu Administration’s commitment to press freedom and constructive engagement with the media.

“We remain committed to upholding press freedom as a pillar of democracy and to creating an enabling environment where journalists can carry out their duties professionally.

“Democracy flourishes when citizens are well informed, and the media performs its watchdog role responsibly,” the minister said.

He urged journalists to present a balanced picture of Northern Nigeria by reporting both its challenges and its progress.

“Northern Nigeria is far more than insecurity. It is home to entrepreneurs, farmers, innovators, researchers, artists, and young people who are transforming their communities every day.

“These stories deserve to be told alongside the challenges because they present a fuller and more accurate picture of our region,” he said.

Highlighting the achievements of the Renewed Hope Agenda, Mr Idris said the federal government was investing in infrastructure, education, security and economic reforms to unlock opportunities across the country.

He cited the four legacy highway projects, the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), and ongoing investments in rail, energy and logistics as key initiatives driving growth, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

He also highlighted two major milestones under the Ministry of Information and National Orientation: the establishment of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) and the launch of the digital switch over (FreeTV) platform.

“These initiatives will strengthen responsible journalism, expand access to quality broadcasting, create jobs, promote local content and position Nigeria as a leader in the fight against misinformation and disinformation,” the minister said.

He urged media practitioners to help shape a better future for the region.

“Tell the stories of our innovators. Tell the stories of our farmers. Tell the stories of our entrepreneurs. Tell stories that inspire confidence without abandoning truth. Tell stories that unite rather than divide,” he said.

The inaugural Arewa media summit, convened by Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, senior special assistant to the president on media and public enlightenment, brought together journalists, broadcasters, filmmakers, digital creators, academics, communication professionals and policymakers.

The summit was attended by Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State and representatives of the governors of Yobe State and Kebbi State, including the special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga and the special assistant to the president on social media, Dada Olusegun.

Also present were the president of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Alhassan Yahaya; the Commissioner of Information, Kaduna State, Ahmed Maiyaki; and other dignitaries. 

(NAN)