Information minister urges responsible use of social media for national unity

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has urged Nigerians to use social media as a tool for national unity, accountability, and development.

Idris said this at the September Lunch Time Seminar organised by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), in Abuja on Wednesday.

The theme of the seminar is “National Rebirth in Digital Era: Navigating the Information Conundrum-Challenges, Strategies and Best Practices for Effective Information Management in the Age of Social Media’’.

The minister, who was represented by Mr Henshaw Ogubike, Director, Public Communication and National Orientation at the Ministry, highlighted the importance of responsible and transparent information management in the digital era.

According to him, social media presents both immense opportunities and significant challenges, particularly in an era where information travels rapidly and can shape perceptions, influence decisions, and impact governance.

To harness the potential of social media, the minister stressed the need for strategies that promote national unity, accountability, and development.

He commended the organisers of the seminar for creating a platform for dialogue, reflection, and sharing of best practices.

He expressed the Federal Government’s commitment to growing the community, responding to critical issues, and contributing to a more sustainable future.

He pledged to provide information and work collaboratively to promote informed decision-making and action.

Mr Dasuki Arabi, the Director-General, BPSR, emphasised the importance of effective information management in the digital era, highlighting its potential to either strengthen or weaken institutions.

According to him, the Bureau has taken deliberate steps to strengthen information reforms across the public service, including developing a communication strategy that promotes accountability and responsible use of information.

Arabi identified challenges around information management, including information overload, misinformation, and cybersecurity threats.

To address these challenges, he recommended embracing digital literacy, fact-checking, clear communication, and leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and block chain.

He commended the Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Malam Jibrin Ndace, for his efforts in repositioning Nigeria’s image globally, by expanding digital radio broadcasting, and strengthening multilingual news services.

Arabi urged participants to engage actively and contribute practical ideas to make institutions more responsive, transparent, and future-ready.

In his remarks, Ndace explained the impact of social media on a country’s image, noting that information shared online can have far-reaching consequences.

He urged individuals to be mindful of their online presence and to avoid making negative comments about their country.

According to him, criticising one’s own country can devalue oneself, rather than the country.

The VON boss encouraged participants to work together towards effective communication in service of the country.

He further emphasised the importance of responsible communication and effective information management toward promoting a positive national image.

“By working together and being mindful of the information we share, we can contribute to the development and progress of our country,” he said.