The Federal Government has once again assured Nigerians of its unwavering determination to tackle the country’s persistent insecurity, especially in regions like Plateau, Benue, and Borno, where recent attacks by non-state actors have claimed numerous lives.
This reassurance came on Wednesday during the first-quarter media stakeholders’ seminar held in Abuja for top media executives. Speaking at the event, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized the administration’s strategic focus on national security under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Represented by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Ndace, the minister noted that the Tinubu-led government has made significant investments in military equipment, personnel training, and intelligence infrastructure aimed at strengthening national security.
“The Tinubu administration is unrelenting in its commitment to overcoming these threats and ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians,” Idris said. “We have made massive investments in acquiring military assets, training and retraining our armed forces and security personnel, and enhancing intelligence gathering across the board.”
He highlighted the government’s multi-faceted approach to combatting insurgency, banditry, and terrorism, stressing that the President’s actions reflect a deep and coordinated commitment to restoring peace nationwide.
While commending the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Idris also issued a strong appeal to media organizations across the country to play a more responsible role in national security matters. He cautioned against the glorification or amplification of terrorist activities through media coverage.
“The media must strike a delicate balance between the public’s right to know and the imperative to protect national interests. Terrorists thrive on publicity. Deny them that oxygen,” he said.
He urged journalists to, instead, spotlight the gallantry of Nigeria’s armed forces and the resilience of communities affected by insecurity. “Let us amplify the heroism of our military and the strength of our communities, rather than promote divisive rhetoric that may inflame tensions or embolden attackers,” the minister advised.
According to Idris, insecurity and terrorism are global challenges, not issues exclusive to Nigeria, and must be confronted with a unified national spirit. He called on media houses to become active partners in security by encouraging public collaboration and information-sharing with law enforcement agencies.
“National security is a collective responsibility,” he stated. “The media must help educate the public and encourage them to volunteer timely and useful information to our security agencies.”
The minister also conveyed President Tinubu’s appreciation for the sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces, who he said continue to restore hope in conflict-ridden areas by neutralizing threats, rescuing hostages, and securing communities.
“The minister asked me personally to let the members of the Armed Forces know that they are being appreciated by Nigerians. Their daily sacrifices are being noted and valued,” Ndace conveyed.
Also speaking at the seminar, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa—represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde—highlighted the increasing role of media in modern warfare. He explained that in today’s digital age, information has become a critical part of tactical and strategic military planning.
“The media now plays a key role in warfare—not just as observers but as participants in the information domain. What is said, how it is said, and what is omitted can shape outcomes on and off the battlefield,” he noted.
As Nigeria continues its fight against terrorism and other security threats, the government and military leadership are urging for stronger collaboration with the media to secure peace and national stability.