Speaking at the 48th National Council of Information and National Orientation in Kaduna on Friday, Idris highlighted the transformative potential of accurate, transparent, and accessible public information.
Central to the Minister’s address was the urgent need to counter the growing threat of fake news, which he described as a significant challenge to governance and public trust.
To tackle this issue, he announced the immediate operationalisation of the UNESCO Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja. The institute, the first of its kind globally, will equip Nigerians with tools to identify credible information and resist the influence of misinformation.
“In an era where fake news, propaganda, and biased reporting can significantly influence public opinion and decision-making, media literacy fosters critical thinking.
“It helps individuals analyse the intent behind media messages, understand the context in which they are presented, and assess their accuracy and relevance.
“I therefore urge the Commissioners for Information to take advantage of this very important institute, once it takes off, to further build the capacity of our staff in combating the menace of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation,” Idris said.
The minister also stressed the importance of grassroots communication, advocating for the use of local languages, community radio stations, and town hall meetings to ensure government policies reach even the most remote areas.
He noted ongoing efforts by the Federal Information Centres to prioritise community engagement and foster inclusivity.
“Information management must transcend urban centres to reach the remotest communities. Local languages, town hall meetings, and community radio stations should play pivotal roles in ensuring inclusivity.
“To this end, and in recognition of the diverse nature of our country, the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, through the Federal Information Centres, has prioritised grassroots engagement through town hall meetings, community outreach programmes, and collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure that government policies resonate with citizens at all levels,” he stated.
Idris also called for a modernisation of public information systems through the adoption of digital tools and artificial intelligence, which he said would enhance the speed, accuracy, and reach of government messaging.
He stressed that public communication must evolve to meet the dynamic needs of the digital age.
In a passionate appeal, the minister urged state governments to preserve and strengthen their Ministries of Information, which he described as critical to bridging the gap between government policies and citizens.
“These ministries are indispensable in combating misinformation, fostering national unity, and driving societal progress,” he stated.
Idris’s strategy aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises transparency, inclusivity, and people-centred governance.
He expressed confidence that these measures would position public information management as a cornerstone of national development and democracy.
