The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on bloggers, online publishers and digital content creators to uphold the principles of ethical journalism, responsible storytelling and fact-based reporting to strengthen democracy and contribute to national development.
He made this known during the Niger State Bloggers, Online Publishers and Content Developers Forum in Abuja on Monday.
The Minister said the growing influence of digital media comes with a responsibility to promote truth, foster national unity and encourage constructive public discourse.
He noted that while digital platforms have created unprecedented opportunities for innovation and civic engagement, they must be deployed responsibly in the public interest.
“There is no democracy that can thrive without a responsible media. You cannot carry freedom and abandon responsibility,” the Minister stated, reaffirming the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to safeguarding press freedom while promoting professionalism and ethical standards in the media.
Idris urged bloggers and content creators to verify information before publication, reject misinformation and disinformation, shun sensationalism, and leverage their platforms to educate, inspire and promote positive national values.
He encouraged young Nigerians to see digital content creation not only as a viable source of livelihood but also as a powerful instrument for civic engagement and nation-building.
The Minister also highlighted the establishment of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI), the world’s first UNESCO Category II Institute dedicated exclusively to Media and Information Literacy, describing it as a landmark initiative to deepen digital literacy, strengthen responsible online engagement and enhance the credibility of Nigeria’s digital media ecosystem.
He further urged aspiring digital entrepreneurs to continually build their professional capacity and uphold standards that will inspire public confidence in online journalism.
