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, noting that political competition is an essential part of democracy. However, this competition must not be allowed to become a source of incitement, hate speech, or the deliberate circulation of 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 that the future of broadcasting will be shaped by technology, but its credibility will continue to depend on people. Idris believes that the credibility of broadcasting can be maintained through responsible reporting and adherence to professional ethics.
Idris urged the SNB and broadcasters to strengthen professional training, election reporting, verification, and measures against AI-generated misinformation. He emphasized that this will be crucial in ensuring that broadcasting continues to play a positive role in Nigeria's democratic process. The Minister's call for responsible broadcasting has been seen as a timely reminder of the critical role that the media plays in shaping public discourse.
The 2027 elections are expected to be a significant event in Nigeria's democratic calendar. The Minister's emphasis on responsible broadcasting is seen as an effort to ensure that the media contributes positively to the electoral process. By upholding accuracy, fairness, and professional ethics, broadcasters can help promote a well-informed public discourse and ensure that the elections are conducted in a peaceful and credible manner.
Key points
- Minister Idris calls for responsible broadcasting to protect democracy ahead of the 2027 elections.
- Broadcasters urged to distinguish between facts, allegations, opinions, and unverified claims.
- Federal Government investments in broadcasting sector highlighted, including Digital Switch Over platform.
