Media, Security Agencies Must Work Together for Nigeria’s Peace – Information Minister

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, don call for stronger partnership between media organisations and security agencies to protect Nigeria’s peace, stability and national development.

The minister make the call on Thursday for Abuja during the National Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists in collaboration with the Department of State Services.

Speaking on the theme, “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building,” Idris say both institutions get important roles to play in protecting national interest and promoting unity across the country.

According to am, while security agencies dey responsible for protecting lives, property and Nigeria’s sovereignty, the media serves as the bridge between government and citizens, helping to inform the public and hold institutions accountable.

“Both institutions share one common goal — to protect national interest and promote peace, unity and development,” he said.

The minister explain say effective collaboration based on trust, professionalism and mutual respect go strengthen national security and improve public confidence in government institutions.

He note say Nigeria still faces several security challenges including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime, organised crime, violent extremism and the spread of fake news and misinformation.

Idris say the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has continued to prioritise security through military operations, intelligence gathering, inter-agency cooperation, technology deployment and community engagement.

According to him, security agencies have recorded notable successes, including the arrest and neutralisation of terrorists, bandits and kidnappers, destruction of criminal hideouts and rescue of kidnapped victims across different parts of the country.

The minister also reveal say the Federal Government has invested heavily in modern military equipment, intelligence systems, surveillance technology and personnel training to improve operational efficiency.

Beyond security operations, Idris say government dey also address root causes of insecurity through economic reforms, youth empowerment programmes, education, infrastructure projects and social intervention schemes.

Speaking on the role of journalists, he warn against the dangers of misinformation and fake news, especially in the digital age where unverified information can spread rapidly.

“National security no dey served when people spread information without verification. At the same time, legitimate public concerns should not be ignored. We must strike a balance between the public’s right to know and the need to protect national security,” he stated.

He urged journalists to maintain professionalism, accuracy and fairness in their reporting, while encouraging security agencies to improve communication and transparency with the media.

The minister also assured stakeholders that the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation will continue to promote dialogue, capacity building and strategic communication between the media and security institutions.

Describing security as everybody’s responsibility, Idris called on citizens, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups and other stakeholders to support efforts aimed at building a peaceful, united and prosperous Nigeria.

He commended the NUJ and DSS for organising the summit, expressing confidence that the discussions would produce practical recommendations to strengthen cooperation between the media and security agencies.

The event attracted top government officials, security chiefs, media executives and communication professionals from across the country.