The Nigerian Federal Government has strongly countered assertions of the nation being on the verge of collapse, emphasizing its stability, resilience, and consistent progress towards economic recovery and growth.
This declaration was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the 81st General Assembly and 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) held in Abuja on Wednesday
Minister Idris unequivocally stated, “I want to unequivocally refute the insinuation that Nigeria is on the brink. On the contrary, we are daily exhibiting resilience and tackling our security and economic challenges more decisively.”
Security Gains and Enhanced Intelligence
Addressing concerns regarding national security, Idris reassured citizens of significant advancements through sustained military operations and enhanced intelligence coordination.
He highlighted recent successful interventions in Zamfara and Niger States, where security forces effectively neutralized bandits and thwarted planned attacks.
The Minister noted, “Coordinated operations by the Armed Forces and other security agencies have led to sustained gains in several parts of the country. 
“Incidents of large-scale insurgent
control have significantly decreased, and we are strengthening intelligence and rapid response systems to protect lives and property.”
Economic Recovery and Investor Confidence
On the economic front, the Minister pointed to current indicators signaling recovery and a resurgence of investor confidence, attributing these positive trends to ongoing reforms.
He elaborated, “Nigeria’s foreign reserves are strengthening, investor confidence is
improving, and reforms in both the oil and non-oil sectors are expanding revenue streams.
“These decisions, though difficult, are stabilising public finances and creating a more transparent economic environment.”
Further underscoring Nigeria’s economic resurgence, Idris cited the nation’s recent reclassification to Frontier Market status by FTSE Russell, a prominent global financial index.
This reclassification, he explained, reflects improved foreign-exchange liquidity, greater market transparency, and increased ease of capital repatriation. “This development confirms that Nigeria is once again a viable destination for global investment, with international funds expected to increase participation in our capital market,” Idris said.
Call for Responsible Media Reporting
In his address to the media, the Minister urged responsible and accurate reporting, particularly as the country approaches another election cycle.
He underscored the pivotal role of broadcasters in shaping public perception and fostering national unity. “The airwaves are a public trust. Broadcasting must continue to inform, educate, and unite our people, while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and accuracy,” he stressed.
Idris reiterated the FG’s commitment to supporting a free, responsible, and forward-looking media environment, advocating for stronger collaboration between govt and media institutions to combat misinformation and promote national cohesion.
He concluded, “Difficult moments like this require stronger faith in our country
and a deep sense of patriotism, not narratives that create fear or division.”BON General Assembly
The Minister formally inaugurated the 81st General Assembly and Annual General Meeting of BON, expressing optimism that the gathering would generate practical solutions to advance the broadcasting industry.
The event saw the attendance of several distinguished dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan; the Director-General, National Broadcasting Commission
(NBC), Mr. Charles Ebuebu.
Also, the Director-General, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Chairman, Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON), Comr. Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos; Director General, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo.
The Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba Ndace; Director- General, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr. Mohammed Bulama, and the Vice Chairman, Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON), Chief Tony Akiotu, among others.
