Nigeria not failing, FG counters ‘collapse’ narrative

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris By Joseph Erunke The Federal Government on Wednesday pushed back forcefully against growing narratives of national decline, insisting that Nigeria is not on the brink of collapse but is instead demonstrating resilience, recovery, and steady progress across key sectors. Information and National Orientation Minister, Mohammed Idris, delivered the firm rebuttal at the 81st General Assembly and 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria, BON, in Abuja, where he dismissed pessimistic projections about the country’s future as unfounded. “I want to unequivocally refute the insinuation that Nigeria is on the brink,” Idris declared. According to him, “On the contrary, we are daily exhibiting resilience and tackling our security and economic challenges more decisively.” The minister pointed to recent security gains as evidence of the government’s intensified efforts to stabilise the country. He highlighted coordinated military offensives and improved intelligence-sharing mechanisms that have led to the neutralisation of bandits and the disruption of planned attacks, particularly in Zamfara and Niger States. According to him, these operations are part of a broader strategy that is steadily degrading criminal networks and restoring order in previously volatile regions. “Incidents of large-scale insurgent control have significantly decreased,” he said, adding that enhanced rapid-response systems are being deployed nationwide to better protect lives and property. On the economic front, Idris painted a cautiously optimistic picture, noting that key indicators are beginning to reflect recovery and renewed investor confidence following a series of sweeping reforms. He said Nigeria’s foreign reserves are strengthening while revenue streams are expanding across both oil and non-oil sectors, driven by policies aimed at improving transparency and fiscal discipline. “These decisions, though difficult, are stabilising public finances and creating a more transparent economic environment,” the Minister stated. In a significant boost to the government’s position, Idris cited Nigeria’s recent reclassification to Frontier Market status by global index provider FTSE Russell as a strong endorsement of the country’s reform trajectory. He explained that the upgrade reflects improvements in foreign exchange liquidity, market transparency, and ease of capital repatriation – factors expected to attract increased foreign investment into Nigeria’s capital markets. “This development confirms that Nigeria is once again a viable destination for global investment,” he said. Turning to the media, Idris issued a pointed call for responsible journalism, especially as the country edges closer to another election cycle. He stressed that broadcasters carry a critical national responsibility and must avoid amplifying narratives capable of deepening divisions or inciting fear among citizens. “The airwaves are a public trust. Broadcasting must inform, educate, and unite our people while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and accuracy, “he said. The minister also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to press freedom, while urging stronger collaboration between media organisations and the government to combat misinformation and promote national cohesion. “Difficult moments like this require stronger faith in our country and a deep sense of patriotism,” he added, warning against narratives that could undermine national unity. Idris commended BON for its role in promoting professionalism and ethical standards in the industry, urging stakeholders to remain committed to strengthening democratic values through responsible broadcasting. He assured that the government would continue to engage transparently with citizens as it pursues reforms aimed at building a more secure and prosperous nation. Declaring the BON General Assembly open, the minister expressed optimism that the gathering would yield practical solutions to advance Nigeria’s broadcasting landscape. The event drew top industry and public sector figures, including INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan; NBC Director-General, Charles Ebuebu; NTA Director-General and BON Chairman, Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos; ARCON DG, Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo; VON DG, Jibrin Baba Ndace; and FRCN DG, Dr. Mohammed Bulama, among other dignitaries.