The Federal Government has called on journalists, media organisations and social media influencers to deny terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups the publicity they often seek through news reports, emphasising that responsible journalism remains vital to safeguarding national security.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the appeal in Abuja, urging media practitioners to uphold professionalism, avoid sensationalism and support efforts aimed at tackling insecurity nationwide.
The Federal Government has appealed to media organisations, journalists and social media influencers across the country to deny terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups the attention they frequently seek through news coverage and digital platforms, stressing that ethical journalism remains crucial to Nigeria’s efforts to address insecurity.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the appeal during the seventh edition of the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series held in Abuja. He stated that although the media has a constitutional obligation to keep the public informed, that responsibility should be exercised in a way that neither fuels fear nor unintentionally provides a platform for criminal propaganda.
According to the minister, terrorists and bandits intentionally take advantage of media coverage to magnify the effects of their attacks, spread fear among citizens and create a misleading impression of strength. He explained that sensational reporting and the repeated publication of disturbing images or unverified claims could weaken ongoing security operations and encourage criminal groups.
Idris therefore urged journalists to uphold professional ethics by ensuring accuracy, fairness and balance in their reports. He advised media practitioners to verify information before publication and avoid headlines or stories that could glorify terrorists or generate unnecessary public anxiety.
The minister also stressed the importance of closer collaboration between the media and security agencies in tackling the country’s security challenges. He maintained that responsible reporting would not only keep citizens properly informed but also promote national unity and complement the efforts of security personnel working to restore peace in affected communities.
While acknowledging the constitutional responsibility of the press as the watchdog of society, Idris said national security should remain a key consideration in the discharge of journalistic responsibilities. He encouraged media organisations to devote greater attention to the achievements recorded by the Armed Forces and other security agencies in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening security across the country through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced military operations and sustained collaboration with relevant stakeholders. According to him, the administration remains committed to protecting lives and property while pursuing lasting peace and stability.
The minister further commended media practitioners for their contributions to national development and urged them to continue supporting government efforts through factual, ethical and responsible reporting. He expressed confidence that a united approach involving government, the media and citizens would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s response to insecurity and help deny criminal groups the attention they seek.
The Federal Government reiterated that the media remains an indispensable partner in nation-building and urged all stakeholders within the information ecosystem to promote truthful reporting that advances peace, protects national interest and contributes to a safer Nigeria.
