The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to retooling Nigeria’s information machinery to meet
By Nefishetu Yakubu
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to retooling Nigeria’s information machinery to meet global communication standards during NUJ Information Chapel’s 2025 Press Week in Abuja.
Represented by Dr Sunday Baba, the minister highlighted efforts to modernise the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), strengthen the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and establish the FGN Connect publication for improved information dissemination.
Idris noted ongoing renovations at Radio House and promised that the National Press Centre would become a modern media hub before year-end, aiming to improve journalists’ workspaces nationwide.
He emphasised building credible government spokespeople through sustained capacity building, collaboration, and upgrading the National Institute of Public Information (NIPI) in Kaduna for training information officers.
The minister urged journalists to uphold ethical journalism, report truthfully, and help citizens understand national policies responsibly, while calling on public relations officers to defend Nigeria’s image against misinformation.
Raphael Towoju, NUJ Chapel Chairman, called on the media to uphold high professional and ethical standards and pledged continued support to empower information officers amid evolving journalism demands.
Ms. Grace Ike, NUJ FCT Council Chair, stressed public trust in government communication was vital for governance, urging spokespersons to adapt to social media and counter misinformation with verified facts.
Charles Chikezie, retired Director of Public Communication at the ministry, lectured on the role of credible communication in governance, urging spokespeople to provide timely and empathetic responses to effectively address public anxieties.
NAN reports that the event ended with the decoration of Idris as Patron of the Chapel and the presentation of excellence awards to deserving staff. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)