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Remarks by the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, fnipr, at the Symposium:
“Reimagining the North: Media, Productive Power, and the Making of the Next Northern Nigeria”
Organised by the Liberty Media Group, held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at the Yar’Adua Center, Abuja
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, organizers of this important symposium, media executives, scholars, development partners, and esteemed participants,
I am honoured to be part of this timely and forward-looking gathering themed “Reimagining the North: Media, Productive Power, and the Making of the Next Northern Nigeria.” Let me begin by commending the conveners for bringing together such a critical conversation at a moment when reflection and renewed action are urgently needed.
The Northern region of Nigeria remains central to our national identity, our economic potential, and our collective future. Any serious national development agenda must therefore place emphasis on unlocking the productive capacities of the North—its human capital, agricultural strength, cultural diversity, and entrepreneurial energy.
The Federal Government of Nigeria fully identifies with efforts aimed at reimagining and repositioning the region for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
As a government, we remain committed to policies and programmes that promote economic empowerment, youth engagement, infrastructure development, and social cohesion across all parts of the North.
Through initiatives in agriculture, renewable energy, education, and security reforms, we are working to ensure that citizens in Northern Nigeria experience tangible improvements in their quality of life.
However, we also recognize that no region can thrive in the absence of peace and security. The challenges of terrorism, banditry, and other forms of violent criminality in parts of Northern Nigeria remain a serious concern.
The Federal Government is fully committed to confronting these threats decisively. Through strengthened collaboration among our armed forces, intelligence agencies, and community-based structures, we are steadily working to restore lasting peace and stability. We are equally investing in non-kinetic approaches that address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, illiteracy, and social exclusion.
In this regard, the media has a critical role to play—not only as observers but as partners in nation-building.
The theme of this symposium rightly underscores the power of media in shaping narratives, influencing perception, and ultimately contributing to development outcomes. We must therefore encourage responsible journalism that informs, educates, and unites rather than divides.
At the same time, I must emphasize the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation, particularly in the digital age.
False narratives, deliberately fabricated content, and unverified reports have the capacity to inflame tensions, undermine public trust, and weaken national cohesion. I urge media practitioners, content creators, and citizens alike to exercise vigilance, verify information before dissemination, and uphold the highest standards of professional ethics.
The Federal Government remains committed to working with the media community to promote transparency, accountability, and open communication.
A well-informed public is essential to a functioning democracy, and we will continue to support initiatives that strengthen media capacity and digital literacy across the country.
In conclusion, reimagining Northern Nigeria is not just a slogan—it is a national imperative. It requires collaboration between government, media, civil society, and the private sector. It demands courage, innovation, and a shared commitment to peace and progress.
Let us work together to build a Northern Nigeria that is secure, productive, and full of opportunity for all its people.
Thank you, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
SB E-news.
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