Information Minister Mohammed Idris says Nigeria is making steady progress despite security and economic challenges
The Federal Government on Wednesday dismissed claims that Nigeria is on the brink of collapse, insisting the country is making steady progress in addressing its security and economic challenges.
The statement counters recent warnings from a coalition of civil society organisations, which highlights worsening insecurity, economic strain, and governance concerns across the nation.
Speaking at the 81st General Assembly and 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON) in Abuja, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described such narratives as “pessimistic” and misleading.
“I want to unequivocally refute the insinuation that Nigeria is on the brink,” Idris said in a statement signed by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim.
He stressed that Nigeria is demonstrating resilience amid its difficulties, citing ongoing security operations as evidence of progress.
“Coordinated military offensives and improved intelligence-sharing have neutralised bandits and disrupted attacks, particularly in northern Nigeria,” the minister said. “Incidents of large-scale insurgent control have significantly decreased, and rapid-response mechanisms are being deployed nationwide to safeguard lives and property.”
On the economic front, Idris pointed to signs of recovery, including rising foreign reserves and expanding revenue streams across oil and non-oil sectors. He attributed the improvements to reforms designed to strengthen fiscal discipline and transparency.
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“These decisions, though difficult, are stabilising public finances and creating a more transparent economic environment,” he added.
The minister also cited Nigeria’s recent reclassification as a Frontier Market by FTSE Russell, describing it as a positive signal for global investors. “This development confirms that Nigeria is once again a viable destination for global investment,” he said.
Addressing broadcasters, Idris urged media professionals to maintain high standards, avoid sensationalism, and resist narratives that could deepen national divisions, especially ahead of the next election cycle.
“The airwaves are a public trust. Broadcasting must inform, educate, and unite our people while upholding professionalism, fairness, and accuracy,” he said.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to press freedom, Idris called for stronger collaboration between 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.
The minister commended BON for promoting ethical broadcasting standards and expressed confidence that the assembly would yield practical strategies to advance the sector, assuring Nigerians of continued transparency in government reforms aimed at enhancing security and economic growth.
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