The Federal Government on Wednesday dismissed claims that Nigeria is on the verge of collapse, emphasizing that the country is instead demonstrating resilience, steady recovery, and progress across key sectors.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the remarks at the 81st General Assembly and 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON) in Abuja, describing pessimistic projections about the nation’s future as unfounded.
“I want to unequivocally refute the insinuation that Nigeria is on the brink,” Idris said. “On the contrary, we are daily exhibiting resilience and addressing our security and economic challenges decisively.”
The minister highlighted recent security gains, including coordinated military operations and improved intelligence-sharing mechanisms that have led to the neutralization of bandits and the disruption of planned attacks, particularly in Zamfara and Niger states.
He said these efforts form part of a broader strategy to weaken criminal networks and restore order in previously volatile areas.
“Incidents of large-scale insurgent control have significantly decreased,” Idris added, noting that enhanced rapid-response systems are being deployed nationwide to protect lives and property.
On the economic front, Idris painted a cautiously optimistic picture. He said key indicators are beginning to reflect recovery and renewed investor confidence following reforms aimed at improving transparency and fiscal discipline.
“Nigeria’s foreign reserves are strengthening, and revenue streams are expanding across both oil and non-oil sectors,” he said. “These decisions, though difficult, are stabilizing public finances and creating a more transparent economic environment.”
Idris also cited Nigeria’s recent upgrade to Frontier Market status by global index provider FTSE Russell as a strong endorsement of the country’s reform trajectory.
He explained that the classification reflects improvements in foreign exchange liquidity, market transparency, and ease of capital repatriation—factors expected to attract more foreign investment.
“This development confirms that Nigeria is once again a viable destination for global investment,” the minister said.
Turning to the media, Idris urged responsible journalism, especially with elections approaching. He stressed that broadcasters carry a national responsibility to inform, educate, and unite citizens while upholding high standards of professionalism and accuracy.
“The airwaves are a public trust. Broadcasting must avoid narratives that deepen divisions or incite fear,” he said.
Idris reaffirmed the government’s commitment to press freedom and encouraged collaboration between media organizations and the government to combat misinformation and promote national cohesion.
He also commended BON for promoting professionalism and ethical standards in broadcasting, urging stakeholders to strengthen democratic values through responsible journalism.
The event attracted top industry and public sector figures, including INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, NBC Director-General Charles Ebuebu, NTA Director-General and BON Chairman Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos, ARCON DG Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, VON DG Jibrin Baba Ndace, and FRCN DG Dr. Mohammed Bulama, among others.
