Information Minister, Mohammed Idris has pledged to refrain from spreading propaganda that exclusively benefits President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Mr. Idris affirmed that the president tasked him with reinstating trust and integrity in public discourse. He made these remarks in Abuja during the 60th anniversary celebration of the National Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
“I have the endorsement and authorization of my superior, President Bola Tinubu, who appointed me to speak truthfully, albeit in a tactful manner. He emphasized the necessity of reinstating trust in public communication. This is crucial for garnering respect from the populace and ensuring their receptiveness to the government’s messages.
“We will persist in this approach for the duration of my tenure,” the minister declared.
He emphasized the importance of always being candid with the public and earning their recognition for honesty.
“It is imperative that trust and integrity be reestablished in public communication. Therefore, if I am not well-informed on a particular matter, I would rather refrain from speaking than disseminate misinformation,” he emphasized.
During her keynote address, former Liberian Vice-President Jewel Taylor recounted her experiences with stigma and criticism, as well as her success in altering the negative perceptions people held of her.
Ms. Taylor praised NIPR, highlighting that politicians frequently contend with crises, underscoring the significance of public relations as a valuable tool for addressing such challenges.
She further noted that public relations has long been a fundamental aspect of African society, predating the arrival of colonial powers.
Mr. Idris reiterated his dedication to transparency and truthfulness in all his communications with the public. He stressed that being honest and forthright is essential for rebuilding trust and credibility in government messaging. The minister vowed to uphold these principles throughout his term in office, ensuring that the public receives accurate and reliable information from the government.
