Nigerian Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasized the importance of responsible broadcasting in protecting democracy as the country approaches the 2027 elections. Speaking on Monday in Bauchi, Idris stressed that accuracy, fairness, and professional ethics are crucial in reporting. His remarks were delivered on his behalf by Jibrin Baba Ndace, Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), at the 3rd Annual National Conference of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB).
Idris highlighted the significant reach of broadcasting and the resultant professional responsibility on broadcasters to ensure that information presented to the public is accurate, verified, and properly contextualised. He noted that responsible broadcasting does not imply favourable broadcasting, but rather a commitment to questioning government, political parties, candidates, and public institutions. According to Idris, the media must investigate, scrutinise, and hold those in positions of responsibility to account.
The Minister urged broadcasters to distinguish between facts, allegations, opinions, and unverified claims, particularly in the face of artificial intelligence and social media, which can facilitate the spread of false and manipulated content. He emphasized that verification cannot be treated as an occasional newsroom procedure, but must remain at the heart of professional broadcasting. This, he believes, is crucial in maintaining the credibility of the broadcasting sector.
Idris also warned broadcasters against hate speech, ethnic and religious provocation, and the deliberate circulation of false information during the 2027 electoral period. He encouraged them to continue providing space for legitimate debate and criticism, while avoiding content that could incite or provoke. According to Idris, political competition is essential to democracy, but it must not be allowed to degenerate into hate speech or false information.
The Minister highlighted Federal Government investments in the broadcasting sector, including the Digital Switch Over platform and the modernisation of NTA, FRCN, and VON. He expressed confidence that while technology will shape the future of broadcasting, its credibility will continue to depend on people. Idris urged the SNB and broadcasters to strengthen professional training, particularly in election reporting, verification, and measures against AI-generated misinformation.
Idris's call for responsible broadcasting comes as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections. The Minister's emphasis on accuracy, fairness, and professional ethics is seen as a crucial step in ensuring that the electoral process is fair and transparent. By upholding these values, broadcasters can play a significant role in promoting democracy and preventing the spread of misinformation.
The 3rd Annual National Conference of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB) provided a platform for Idris to share his vision for the broadcasting sector. The conference, attended by broadcasters and media professionals, aimed to promote best practices in broadcasting and discuss the challenges facing the sector. Idris's keynote address underscored the importance of responsible broadcasting in Nigeria's democratic process.
Key points
- Nigerian Information Minister Mohammed Idris calls for responsible broadcasting ahead of the 2027 elections.
- Idris emphasizes the importance of accuracy, fairness, and professional ethics in reporting.
- The Minister highlights Federal Government investments in the broadcasting sector, including the Digital Switch Over platform.
