By Muhammad Amaan
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged media practitioners to shape the future of Northern Nigeria through responsible and balanced reporting.
He made the call on Monday in Kano at the Arewa Media Summit with the theme: “Government-Citizen Accord: Accountability, Responsibility and Ethical Media Practice.”
He said democracy thrives when government is accountable, citizens participate in development, and the media performs its constitutional role with professionalism and integrity.
“The future of Northern Nigeria will be determined not only by the quality of roads or industries but by the quality of ideas and stories the media tell about the region,” he said.
“Media is no longer merely an observer of society. It is one of the most powerful forces shaping public opinion, influencing investment, preserving culture, strengthening democracy and fostering national unity.”
Idris described Northern Nigeria as home to millions of young people, centuries-old institutions, rich cultural traditions, vibrant commercial centres and vast agricultural resources.
“Northern Nigeria also has one of Africa’s greatest storytelling traditions. How we tell the story of the North and how others tell it – will influence investment, public confidence and national cohesion,” he said.
The minister said that the media landscape has changed, with smartphones becoming newsrooms and social media accounts turning into broadcasting platforms, while falsehood travels faster than truth.
He said the media has a role in denying violent extremism the publicity it seeks while promoting unity, resilience and hope.
“Let us tell the story of Northern Nigeria with honesty, confidence and balance. Let us confront our challenges without surrendering to despair and celebrate our achievements without abandoning objectivity.
“Project a region defined not only by its resilience but also by its ingenuity, enterprise and boundless potential,” Idris said.
In his remarks, the Convener of the summit and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Public Enlightenment, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, said no nation develops in an atmosphere of distrust.
“Accurate reporting, fair context and verified facts give citizens confidence to support their leaders even in turbulent times.
“They also give the government the feedback it needs to serve better. Ethical media is not a luxury; it is infrastructure for unity, progress and growth,” he said.
On his part, Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State commended the convener for the initiative.
Also in attendance were the Ministers of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, and the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Ata.
