The federal government has urged state governments around the country to improve the capability of their information ministries in order to promote transparency, accountability, and public trust.
Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, made the call during the 48th National Council of Information and National Orientation meeting in Kaduna on Friday.
The meeting was attended by commissioners, permanent secretaries, and stakeholders from the country’s information and public communication ecosystems.
The ministry organised this year’s council meeting, which was themed ‘Enhancing Public Information Management for Inclusive Governance: The Renewed Hope Agenda in Focus’.
Mr Idris thanked Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State for his gracious welcome and unflinching support for all attendees.
According to him, this demonstrates the state’s critical position as a beacon of growth and inclusiveness on the country’s national development journey.
The minister explained that the meeting’s subject emphasized the need of public information in bridging the gap between government policies and Nigerian citizens’ aspirations.
He stated that such a role was vital to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister went on to emphasize that the essence of governance is its ability to connect, communicate, and inspire collective action.
Mr Idris went on to say that information management is more than just an administrative tool; it is the lifeblood of democracy and growth.
He then praised all of the meeting’s participants for their dedication to promoting this important cause.
Mr. Idris stated that Nigeria’s unique diversity is both a source of strength and a challenge.
“With a diverse range of ethnic groups, languages, and religions, ensuring that every citizen feels heard, informed, and engaged in the governing process necessitates purposeful efforts, particularly from Information Managers.
“President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is a resounding call for transformational leadership at all levels and people-focused governance.
“The Agenda is founded on the time-honored premise that governance must be inclusive, transparent, and focused on improving the lives of Nigerians.
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“At this juncture, I would want to make a passionate appeal to some of our state governments, especially on the status and operations of State Ministries of Information.”
He added that amid the ever-expanding parameters of governance, the importance of information ministries at both the national and state levels cannot be emphasized.
“These Ministries serve as the bridge between government policies and the citizens they are designed to benefit, thereby fostering transparency, accountability, and trust, which are essential pillars of any thriving democracy,” says Mr. Idris.
