The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged bloggers, online content creators and digital influencers to embrace ethical journalism, responsible storytelling and fact-based reporting to strengthen democracy and promote national development.
Speaking at the Niger State Bloggers, Online Publishers and Content Developers Forum in Abuja on Monday, the minister said digital platforms provide enormous opportunities for innovation and civic engagement but must be used responsibly to promote truth, national unity and constructive public discourse.
He stressed that a responsible media remains essential to the survival of democracy, noting that press freedom must be exercised with a strong sense of responsibility.
“There is no democracy that can thrive without a responsible media. You cannot carry freedom and abandon responsibility,” Idris said.
The minister said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to protecting press freedom while encouraging ethical journalism across both traditional and digital media platforms.
He urged bloggers and content creators to verify information before publication, reject misinformation and disinformation, avoid sensationalism, and use their platforms to educate, inspire and contribute to national development.
According to him, young Nigerians should see digital content creation not only as a means of earning a livelihood but also as a powerful tool for civic engagement and nation-building.
Idris noted that ethical communication is vital to strengthening democracy, building public trust and fostering informed public discourse.
The minister also highlighted the establishment of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI), which he described as the world’s first UNESCO Category 2 Institute dedicated exclusively to Media and Information Literacy.
He said the institute would play a key role in promoting digital literacy, responsible online engagement and ethical communication.
Idris further encouraged aspiring bloggers and digital entrepreneurs to continue developing their professional skills and uphold high standards that would enhance the credibility of Nigeria’s online media ecosystem.
