By Deji Abdulwahab
Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation and a distinguished fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), clocked 60 on Saturday.
According to a special tribute by the minister’s media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, this milestone is more than a marker of age.
Ibrahim said that the milestone honoured a remarkable journey characterised by steadfast dedication to public service, strategic communication, and nation-building.
He described the minister as a committed supporter of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, Idris has worked tirelessly to advance its vision, not only in the information and communications sector, but also in promoting good governance, economic development, and social progress.
“With deep loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC), he remains profoundly grateful for the trust and opportunity to serve granted to him by Mr President.
“On this occasion, the president personally signed a statement paying tribute to Idris, describing him as “a steadfast steward of public trust, a bridge-builder, and a beacon of integrity in national communication.
“The President further praised him as a consummate professional whose dedication, loyalty, and wisdom have strengthened our democracy and inspired renewed hope in the hearts of Nigerians.”
Ibrahim said that the Idris’s recent recognition as Spokesman of the Year 2026 by Vanguard Newspaper was a testament to his exceptional contributions and enduring influence in the field.
“As a prominent media owner with significant industry stakes, his experience and investments have further enriched the media landscape, affording him unique insight into the sector’s challenges and opportunities.
“Crowning this remarkable week, the inauguration of the UNESCO International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) in Abuja, under his stewardship, stands as a milestone achievement.
“The institute’s launch, coinciding with his birthday, is a testament to his visionary leadership and enduring commitment to equipping Nigerians and the wider region with the skills essential for navigating today’s complex media landscape.”
He said Idris’s stewardship of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, as well as the broader information and communications sector exemplified vision, integrity, and inclusiveness.
“His international media engagements have consistently reflected tact, refinement, and diplomacy, positioning Nigeria’s narrative with credibility and composure on the world stage.
“At a time when the global landscape for information management faces unprecedented challenges, he has navigated Nigeria’s complex communications terrain with unwavering commitment to the public good.
“His leadership has always been guided by the understanding that a robust, credible information ecosystem is the bedrock of democracy and national development.
“Central to his legacy is the restoration of trust in public communication, a hallmark that sits at the very top of his five-point ministerial agenda,” the media aide said.
According to him, Idris’s leadership is defined by positive and collaborative relationships with all heads of agencies under the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
He said that the collaboration fostered a unified sense of purpose and mutual respect.
“His tenure has also reinvigorated trust, enthusiasm, hope, and confidence among the ministry’s staff, who have found renewed motivation under his guidance.
“Idris has championed openness, transparency, and responsible messaging, working tirelessly to bridge the gap between government and citizens.
“He has fostered a culture where information is not merely disseminated, but is anchored in truth, relevance, and respect for the intelligence of the Nigerian people,” Ibrahim said.
He said that Idris had also remained steadfast in his commitment to initiatives that advance his home state, Niger, contributing his expertise, influence, and unwavering (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman
