Minister Appeals to State Govts Not to Scrap Ministries of Information

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has made a passionate appeal to state governments to reconsider their decision to scrap or downgrade their ministries of information.

Speaking at the 48th National Council of Information and National Orientation in Kaduna State on Friday, Idris emphasized the critical role these ministries play in fostering transparency, accountability, and trust between government policies and citizens.

According to Idris, the ministries of information are not just administrative bodies, but key drivers of public engagement, national orientation, and societal cohesion. “These ministries serve as the bridge between government policies and the citizens they are designed to benefit, thereby fostering transparency, accountability, and trust, which are essential pillars of any thriving democracy,” he said.

Idris also highlighted the importance of the ministry of information in public sensitization, stating that it plays a critical role in educating citizens on policies, programs, and initiatives. “They also serve as vital platforms for addressing misinformation, which, if left unchecked, can erode public trust and undermine collective progress,” he added.

The minister’s appeal comes at a time when some state governments are considering downgrading or scrapping their ministries of information. Idris emphasized that having a dedicated body to manage information dissemination is indispensable, especially in an era where information is both a tool and a weapon.

In addition to his appeal, Idris also emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to enhance the speed, accuracy, and reach of messaging. He also stressed the need for information managers to employ fact-checking mechanisms and collaborate with media organizations to combat misinformation.

The 48th National Council of Information and National Orientation was attended by various stakeholders, including commissioners for information, directors of information, and other relevant officials. The event provided a platform for discussion and exchange of ideas on the importance of information management in governance.