We’ll be transparent with Nigerians, says Information Minister Idris

The minister of information and national orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Thursday at the opening ceremony of the annual general meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in Abuja, said that the current administration will not rely on propaganda to propagate government programmes and policies.

Idris, while speaking at the event, reiterated President Tinubu’s efforts to restore people’s confidence and trust in the government by implementing tangible and credible policies.

Idris said, “You are aware that the focus of government now is how to restore the confidence of the governed in government and its institutions.”

“This time, restoring popular confidence and trust in government and its policies shall not lie in the domain of propaganda.

“Through a tangible and credible government policy, the government aims to impact the lives of our people directly. In other words, the era of relying on propaganda to propagate government programmes is now over.”

The minister added that President Bola Tinubu’s administration will be committed to providing credible information to Nigerians at all times.

“Transparency is the currency that builds credibility. While authenticity is the foundation upon which lasting relationships can be built,” he added.

“Let me assure my colleagues, the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President President Bola Ahmed Tinubu shall be anchored on transparent and accountable information dissemination to Nigerians.

“Which, of course, includes boldly and humbly acknowledging mistakes where such are made.

“This, in my opinion, is very important in reducing apathy and engendering trust between government and its citizens.

“We will engender a new approach based on truth, mutual respect, and empathy, which is needed to reopen conversation between government and the people.”

Idris, an NIPR fellow, noted that the event was not only for celebrating members’ dedication to public relations but also to embark on “a journey of reflection, of inspiration, and of collaboration”.

“In this age of information saturation, where every click and stroll adds to the noise, the role of public relations has never been more vital,” Idris said.

“We are the storytellers, the bridge builders and the custodians of reputation; our work shapes perceptions, guides decisions, fosters relationships, and extends far beyond the boardroom.

“As guardians of reputation, therefore, we must learn quickly to navigate uncharted waters with ethical responsibility and a commitment to truth. Ethics indeed lie at the heart of our profession.

“In an era where trust can be shattered with a single misleading tweet, our integrity must remain unshakable.”