As part of efforts to empower information managers to critically dissect information for public consumption, the Ministry of Information says it has put in place mechanisms to curb misinformation that poses threats to national security.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris stated this at the 2024 Annual Civil-Military Conference organized by the centre for Leadership and Followership, at the National Defence College, Abuja.
Idris who was represented by the Director General, Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace said the ministry has resolved to work closely with media organizations to ensure the right narratives are channelled to the people through agents of information.
He said the Ministry’s approach to combating misinformation includes working closely with media organizations to ensure responsible reporting to address the spread of false information.
According to the information Minster, the theme of the conference, ‘A Whole Society Approach to National Security an
d Development,’ is timely and vital as it underscores the necessity of integrated efforts in safeguarding the nation thereby fostering development.
‘As the Minister of Information and National Orientation, I am fully conversant with the crucial role that communication plays in both national security and development, particularly in a rapidly evolving world, where information spreads with unprecedented speed
‘In an era where digital media dominates the information landscape, we must utilize social media, mobile apps, and other digital platforms to disseminate information. We are investing in advanced technologies to reach a broader audience and engage effectively with the public. This informed my decision to relaunch the Nigerian National Information Portal: www.nigeria.gov.ng as a digital gateway for comprehensive information about the government, its policies and programmes, the people of Nigeria, their cultures, tourist attractions, flora, and fauna.’
The Minister assured them of the Ministry’s commitmen
t to provide platforms through the nation’s public information organs like NTA, FRCN, NAN, VON and NOA which aims to amplify the activities of civil society organizations that align with national security and development goals of the government.
He emphasized that achieving a of whole-society approach to national security and development requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society hence the commitment of the Ministry of Information to enhancing communication strategies, combating misinformation, and working closely with Civil Society to promote national cohesion.
Source: Voice of Nigeria