The Nigerian economy is steadily improving under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, according to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. Speaking on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by members and newly elected executives of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) to his office in Abuja, Idris attributed the progress to comprehensive reforms across multiple sectors.
While acknowledging ongoing challenges, the minister emphasised that the government is making consistent headway in managing the economy.
“The economy is not yet what we want it to be but we can see that there is a steady progression. The President has said over and over again that we are turning the corner. I know that many people will say it’s not yet El-dorado. Yes! I also agree but you cannot always say that there is no progress,” Idris said.
He further highlighted that international rating agencies have begun to give Nigeria “pass marks,” reflecting positive trends in economic management. Key reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates are already producing beneficial effects, the minister noted.
Idris also drew attention to the government’s Student Loan Scheme, which currently benefits approximately 300,000 Nigerian students. Through this scheme, the Federal Government covers tuition fees and provides support for students’ upkeep on campus.
“Because of this deliberate intentional policy of the government, over 300,000 Nigerian students that hitherto were out of school or could have been out of school, now have the opportunity to be in school because the government is paying for their tuition and upkeep. This is unprecedented,” he said.
On security matters, Idris stated that the administration is making decisive progress against violent criminals across the country. He urged the media to play an active role in supporting the Armed Forces’ efforts to combat crime and protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“I have always said that it is not good for us as media practitioners to place emphasis or premium on these criminals, gangsters and terrorists or bandits or whatever they are, over and above the citizens of this country,” he remarked.
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He encouraged journalists to balance their coverage by highlighting the successes and sacrifices of security forces, thereby fostering a more positive narrative.
While affirming the media’s responsibility to hold the government accountable through constructive criticism, Idris emphasised the importance of promoting the administration’s achievements. He assured the Guild that he would review the Law Reform Report they submitted and would engage with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation. Additionally, a committee would be established within his ministry to study the report thoroughly.
Idris reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression, describing these as cornerstones of Nigerian democracy. However, he stressed that the media must exercise these freedoms responsibly, with a focus on promoting peace, unity, and national stability.
In closing, the minister congratulated the newly elected executives of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and pledged his support in fostering closer collaboration between the government and the media.
Earlier, Dr Sebastian Abu, Deputy President of the NGE, explained that the delegation’s visit was to formally present the Guild’s Law Reform Committee report, which highlights outdated laws in the Nigerian constitution that need review or removal to create a more enabling environment for media practice.
