Celebrating 26 Years of Democracy: Nigeria’s Minister Advocates for Sharing Success Stories

As Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made a passionate plea to the citizens, especially media professionals and content creators. He urged them to adopt a balanced approach in portraying the nation, emphasizing the importance of sharing not only our challenges but also our successes.

A conversation with Business Insider Africa allowed Mr. Idris to share invaluable insights into the nation’s achievements over the years. It’s compelling how a nation can be seen through diverse lenses—some exaggerated, others less favorable. Have you ever thought about how narratives shape our perception of reality? In Nigeria’s case, the story is intricate, full of vibrancy and resilience.

The minister emphasized that presenting positive narratives about the country—whether in governance, innovation, entrepreneurship, or the creative sector—goes beyond mere public relations. It is a strategic necessity. “We must show the world that there are good things happening in Nigeria. Selling only the negatives does not promote progress,” he stated earnestly. His assertion raises an essential question: If we only share the negative aspects of our lives, how can we possibly inspire change or attract investment?

As Nigeria strives to reshape its global image and attract international partnerships, Idris called upon every stakeholder to take ownership of the national narrative. It is crucial to project hope, resilience, and progress. “If we want investors to come, we need to tell the positive stories about our country. They must be able to believe in Nigeria to invest here,” he asserted. This reflects the age-old adage: a nation thrives not just on numbers, but on stories—both told and heard.

Clarity in Governance Matters

With the recent inauguration of President Tinubu, the government made some bold decisions, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira. These reforms have been pivotal yet disruptive, triggering a marked increase in fuel prices and the general cost of living across the board.

Imagine waking up one day and discovering that the very things you relied upon for subsistence have dramatically increased in price. Many citizens now find themselves caught in a web of reduced purchasing power, experiencing unprecedented hardship. Yet amidst these challenges, the minister reassured Nigerians that the Tinubu-led administration is attuned to the situation and has consistently kept citizens informed about its economic policies and adjustment strategies.

“One thing this government strives to do is keep Nigerians updated about the steps it is taking to address these issues,” said Idris. He took a strong stand on the importance of transparency in governance. Can we truly foster trust without open communication? That remains a challenge for any administration navigating an increasingly complex landscape.

Training and Empowering Youth in Media and Social Media

Beyond just educational paradigms, the administration is developing a range of initiatives aimed at engaging artists, media professionals, investors, and civil society groups. These efforts are designed to foster mutual understanding while driving sustainable growth within the sector. Nigeria’s cultural scene has immense potential to not just elevate its profile but to attract foreign direct investment as well.

Idris articulated the administration’s commitment to engaging the creative economy, a crucial cornerstone for long-term national development. In his words, “An inflow of over $200 million has been secured by the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy through external funding. This injection will significantly boost the arts sector.” The drive to cultivate Nigeria’s creative prowess highlights how young Nigerians are making waves not just locally but on the continental stage.

“Our film industry, Nollywood, is gaining unprecedented recognition, with many young Nigerians excelling in not just movies but also music and various arts. These creative outlets are powerful tools for communication,” he stressed. But what if we used these platforms not just for storytelling, but as strategic vehicles to shape our global image? Shouldn’t art transcend boundaries?

Promoting Positive Narratives and National Orientation

Idris underscored the critical need for responsible social media use. With youth and influencers playing pivotal roles in shaping public discourse, targeted training programs become essential. Education lends itself to empowerment, but how do we ensure that the right narratives are being communicated?

In a forward-thinking partnership, the ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Education to embed media and information literacy into the national curriculum. This initiative signifies a proactive approach—beginning with the National Open University and aiming to equip young Nigerians with critical thinking skills necessary for navigating today’s complex media landscape.

“We want our youth not just to be academically gifted but also media literate. The ability to discern between good and bad information is crucial in today’s age of misinformation,” the minister stated. How often do we navigate a sea of information and struggle to identify the credible from the unreliable?

Through these comprehensive efforts, Nigeria aims to empower the next generation. The goal is not merely to have a literate populace but also a media-savvy one, capable of contributing meaningfully to the nation’s progress. In a world increasingly defined by narratives, how will we script our own story? This question lingers as Nigeria, with its unique blend of challenges and triumphs, endeavors to rewrite its narrative.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.