The future of Northern Nigeria hinges not just on infrastructure and economic development, but profoundly on the narratives woven by its media
professionals.
This was the resounding message from the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, at the inaugural Arewa Media
Summit in Kano.
Addressing a gathering of journalists, broadcasters, filmmakers, and policymakers, Idris underscored the critical role of ethical, balanced, and responsible journalism.
“The future of Northern Nigeria will not be determined only by the quality of our roads, our farms or our industries. It will also be shaped by the quality of our ideas and the stories we tell about ourselves,” he declared, setting a clear mandate for the region’s media landscape.
The Minister acknowledged the media’s immense power in shaping public opinion, attracting investment, preserving culture, strengthening democracy, and fostering national unity.
He highlighted the pervasive challenge of misinformation and disinformation in the digital age, asserting that “Falsehood often travels faster than truth.
“That is why professional journalism has never been more important. Credible journalism must continue to stand for accuracy, fairness, verification and responsibility.”
Reaffirming the Tinubu Administration’s unwavering commitment to press freedom, Idris emphasized creating an enabling environment for journalists to operate professionally.
He urged media practitioners to paint a comprehensive picture of Northern Nigeria, moving beyond prevalent narratives of insecurity to showcase the vibrant spirit of its people.
“Northern Nigeria is far more than insecurity. It is home to entrepreneurs, farmers, innovators, researchers, artists, and young people who are transforming their communities every day.
“These stories deserve to be told alongside the challenges because they present a fuller and more accurate picture of our region,” he passionately stated.
The Minister also detailed the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, citing significant investments in infrastructure, education, security, and economic reforms.
Key initiatives like the Legacy Highway Projects, Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), advancements in rail, energy, and logistics are poised to unlock vast opportunities, particularly across Northern Nigeria.
Further bolstering the media ecosystem, the Ministry of Information and National
Orientation has established International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) and launched the Digital Switch Over (FreeTV) platform.
These initiatives aim to strengthen responsible journalism, expand access to quality broadcasting, create jobs,
promote local content, and combat misinformation.
In a powerful call to action, Minister Idris implored media professionals to become architects of a better future. “Tell the stories of our innovators. Tell the stories of our farmers.
Tell the stories of our entrepreneurs. Tell stories that inspire confidence without
abandoning truth. Tell stories that unite rather than divide.”
The inaugural Arewa Media Summit, convened by Malam Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Public Enlightenment, served as a pivotal platform for this crucial dialogue, bringing together influential figures to chart a new course for media in Northern Nigeria.
