Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasized the significant harm misinformation and fake news can cause, equating it to the damage inflicted by terrorist acts.
According to The PUNCH, at the inauguration of a two-day training workshop dubbed, ‘Effective Reporting Towards Strengthening Alternatives to Terrorist Ideologies’ for Defence Correspondents and Reporters, held at the Office of the National Security Adviser, Idris praised the media’s crucial role in combating terrorism.
Idris highlighted the substantial influence the media has in shaping public perception and fostering peace.
“The media holds immense power to influence minds, shape narratives, and promote peace,” he stated.
He stressed the importance of accurate media coverage in enhancing public understanding of terrorism and national security issues, commending the efforts of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre and the Office of the National Security Adviser in engaging with the media strategically.
The Minister recognized the proactive measures taken by these institutions in the fight against terrorism, including numerous successful rescue operations of kidnap victims.
“Thank you for your dedication and service to the nation,” he expressed.
Idris underlined the ideological battle that terrorism represents and called for the media to present compelling, positive alternatives to extremist ideologies.
“Terrorism is not merely a physical threat; it is an ideological battle of the mind,” he elaborated.
Journalists were urged by Idris to collaborate with security experts, sociologists, psychologists, and community leaders to provide a well-rounded perspective on terrorism and its alternatives.
He encouraged the media to highlight successful counter-radicalization initiatives and programs supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of repentant terrorists into the community, using data and research to bolster the credibility and depth of their stories.
The Minister also cautioned against sensationalism and the dissemination of misinformation, warning, “Sensational reporting can inadvertently glorify terrorist acts and spread fear.” He reiterated, “Misinformation and fake news can be as damaging as the terrorist acts themselves.”
Idris reaffirmed the government’s commitment to free and responsible journalism, stating, “Let me also use this platform to reiterate the commitment of President Tinubu’s administration to free and responsible journalism. We sincerely appreciate your work and we will continue to support you through access to accurate information, regular media briefings, and training opportunities such as this workshop.”
Idris declared the workshop open, expressing optimism for productive discussions.
“The media holds an immense power to influence minds, shape narratives, and promote peace,” he reiterated, underscoring the media’s vital contribution to national security. He encouraged journalists to project positive alternatives to extremist ideologies and uphold the ethics of journalism by ensuring objectivity and fairness while avoiding biased or inflammatory language.
Idris concluded by emphasizing the collective effort needed to combat terrorism, “Together, we can create a strong, united front against terrorism,” highlighting the administration’s dedication to supporting free and responsible journalism through accurate information and regular training opportunities.
