The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged bloggers, online content creators and digital influencers to embrace ethical journalism, responsible storytelling and fact-based reporting.
Idris made the call on Monday in Abuja at the Niger State Bloggers, Online Publishers and Content Developers Forum.
He said digital platforms offered enormous opportunities for innovation and civic engagement but must be used responsibly to promote truth, national unity and constructive public discourse.
“There is no democracy that can thrive without a responsible media. You cannot carry freedom and abandon responsibility,” the minister said.
He added that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remained committed to protecting press freedom while encouraging ethical journalism.
Idris urged bloggers and content creators to verify information before publication, reject misinformation and disinformation, and avoid sensationalism.
He also encouraged them to use their platforms to educate, inspire and promote national development.
The minister said young Nigerians should see digital content creation not only as a source of income but also as a tool for civic engagement and nation-building.
He stressed that ethical communication was essential to strengthening democracy and public trust.
Idris also highlighted the establishment of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI), described as the world’s first UNESCO Category 2 Institute dedicated exclusively to Media and Information Literacy.
He said the institute represented a major step towards promoting digital literacy and responsible online engagement.
The minister further encouraged aspiring bloggers and digital entrepreneurs to continue developing their skills and uphold professional standards to strengthen the credibility of Nigeria’s online media ecosystem.
