Amid escalating challenges, FG insists progress being made on security, economy
The Federal Government on Wednesday reiterated that the country is making steady progress in tackling insecurity and economic challenges facing the Nation. This was as the government rejected claims that Nigeria is on the brink of collapse.
The position comes in response to recent warnings by a coalition of civil society organisations, which described the nation as facing worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and governance concerns.
Speaking in Abuja at the 81st General Assembly and 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria, BON, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, dismissed what he described as pessimistic narratives about the nation’s future.
He said, “I want to unequivocally refute the insinuation that Nigeria is on the brink.
In a statement signed by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, the Minister maintained that the nation was demonstrating resilience in the face of its difficulties.
He said, “On the contrary, we are daily exhibiting resilience and tackling our security and economic challenges more decisively.”
Idris cited ongoing security operations as evidence of progress, noting that coordinated military offensives and improved intelligence-sharing had led to the neutralization of bandits and disruption of attacks, particularly in parts of northern Nigeria.
According to him, these efforts were gradually weakening criminal networks and restoring stability in affected areas.
He said, “Incidents of large-scale insurgent control have significantly decreased.” Adding that enhanced rapid-response mechanisms were being deployed nationwide to safeguard lives and property.
Speaking on the economy, Idris pointed to signs of recovery, including improvements in foreign reserves and the expansion of revenue sources across both oil and non-oil sectors.
He attributed these gains to reforms aimed at strengthening transparency and fiscal discipline in the economy.
“These decisions, though difficult, are stabilising public finances and creating a more transparent economic environment,” Idris stated.
The Minister also referenced Nigeria’s recent reclassification as a Frontier Market by FTSE Russell, describing it as a positive signal to global investors.
According to him, the development reflected improvements in foreign exchange liquidity, market transparency, and ease of capital repatriation.
He said, “This development confirms that Nigeria is once again a viable destination for global investment,” he said.
Addressing the media, Idris urged broadcasters to uphold professionalism and avoid promoting narratives that could deepen divisions, particularly as the country approaches another election cycle.
He said, “The airwaves are a public trust. Broadcasting must inform, educate, and unite our people while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and accuracy.”
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to press freedom, the Minister called for stronger collaboration between the media and public institutions to combat misinformation and promote unity.
“Difficult moments like this require stronger faith in our country and a deep sense of patriotism,” he added.
Idris commended BON for its role in promoting ethical standards in broadcasting and expressed confidence that the gathering would produce practical ideas to advance the sector.
The Minister also assured Nigerians of continued transparency as the government pursues reforms aimed at improving security and economic growth.
According to reports, the 81st BON AGM was attended by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Joash Amupitan, the Director-General, National Broadcasting Commission, Charles Ebuebu, the Director-General, Nigerian Television Authority, and the Chairman, Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, Salihu Dembos.
Also present were the Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, Olalekan Fadolapo; the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Ndace; the Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Mohammed Bulama; and the Vice Chairman of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, Tony Akiotu, among other dignitaries.
