The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged media professionals in Northern Nigeria to uphold ethical, balanced and responsible journalism, saying the region’s future will be shaped not only by infrastructure and economic development but also by the stories told about its people.

Speaking on Monday at the inaugural Arewa Media Summit in Kano, the minister said the media remains a powerful force for shaping public opinion, attracting investment, preserving culture, strengthening democracy and promoting national unity.

“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,” Idris said in his keynote address.

He noted that while digital technology has expanded opportunities for communication and economic growth, it has also accelerated 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 said.

The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to press freedom, describing it as a cornerstone of democracy, and pledged continued support for an environment that enables journalists to carry out their duties professionally.

He also called on journalists to present a balanced portrayal of Northern Nigeria by reporting not only security challenges but also the achievements of entrepreneurs, farmers, innovators, researchers, artists and young people contributing to the region’s development.

Highlighting initiatives under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Idris said the government was investing in infrastructure, education, security and economic reforms. He cited the Four Legacy Highway Projects, the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and ongoing investments in rail, energy and logistics as measures aimed at stimulating growth across the country.

The minister also highlighted the establishment of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute and the launch of the Digital Switch Over (FreeTV) platform, saying the initiatives would strengthen responsible journalism, improve access to quality broadcasting, create jobs, promote local content and enhance efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation.

He urged media practitioners to tell stories that inspire confidence while remaining truthful and promoting national unity.

The summit, convened by Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, brought together journalists, broadcasters, filmmakers, digital content creators, academics, communication professionals and policymakers.

Among those in attendance were Abba Kabir Yusuf, representatives of the governors of Yobe and Kebbi states, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, and the President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Alhassan Yahaya among other dignitaries.

(Photo Credit: TVC News)