Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, says Nigeria’s economy is showing steady signs of improvement under President Bola Tinubu, despite ongoing hardships faced by citizens.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday during a meeting with members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Idris said the economic reforms implemented by the administration are beginning to yield results.
“The economy is not yet what we want it to be, but we can see that there is a steady progression,” he stated.
“The president has said over and over again that we are turning the corner. It’s not yet El Dorado, yes but we cannot deny that progress is being made.”
The minister cited the removal of fuel subsidy and exchange rate unification as critical reforms propelling economic recovery. He also highlighted the student loan scheme as a landmark social intervention.
“Over 300,000 Nigerian students, who otherwise may have dropped out, are now in school because the government is covering their tuition and upkeep. This is unprecedented,” Idris said.
He added that international rating agencies have begun to recognise Nigeria’s macroeconomic adjustments and reform efforts.
On national security, the minister noted that progress is being made in reducing violent crimes and urged the media to reflect those gains.
“It’s not good for us as media practitioners to place more emphasis on criminals, terrorists, and bandits over the lives and progress of ordinary Nigerians,” he cautioned.
While affirming the media’s watchdog role, Idris urged balanced and responsible journalism that fosters unity and supports national development. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression, describing them as pillars of Nigeria’s democracy.
Responding to a report from the Guild on outdated media laws, Idris pledged to consult with the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and initiate a committee within his ministry to review the recommendations.
Earlier, Sebastian Abu, Deputy President of the Guild, presented the report from the Guild’s Law Reform Committee, which identified obsolete provisions in Nigeria’s media laws and called for urgent legislative review to ensure a freer and more enabling media environment.
