Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris has encouraged young Nigerians to see digital content creation as a tool for civic engagement and nation-building.
He made the appeal at the Niger State Bloggers, Online Publishers and Content Developers Forum held in Abuja.
Idris noted that while digital platforms offer enormous opportunities for income, innovation and civic engagement they must be used responsibly to promote truth, national unity and constructive public discourse.
The minister urged young bloggers, online content creators and digital influencers to embrace ethical journalism, responsible storytelling and fact-based reporting as they shape public opinion in the digital age, stating that ethical communication was essential to strengthening democracy and public trust.
“There is no democracy that can thrive without a responsible media. You cannot carry freedom and abandon responsibility,” Idris said, adding that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is determined to safeguard press freedom.
He urged bloggers and content creators to verify information before publication, reject misinformation and disinformation, avoid sensationalism, and use their platforms to educate, inspire and promote national development.
He also highlighted the establishment of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI), the world’s first UNESCO Category 2 Institute dedicated exclusively to Media and Information Literacy, describing it as a major step in promoting digital literacy and responsible online engagement.
He also entreated aspiring bloggers and digital entrepreneurs to continue honing their skills and uphold professional standards that will strengthen the credibility of Nigeria’s online media ecosystem.
Olawale Ajimotokan
