By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo
Former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed says, while press freedom is vital in a democracy, national security must take precedence in the digital era plagued by fake news and misinformation.
Mohammed made this assertion on Wednesday at the University of Ilorin during the donation of copies of his book to the institution.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports, the book, “Headlines and Soundbites: Media Moments that Defined an Administration” which documents his work as the longest-serving minister of information and culture in Nigeria’s history, was presented in Dec., 2025.
Mohammed stressed that, in balancing national security with press freedom in the digital age, national security must take precedence.
He clarified that regulation should not be mistaken for censorship, adding that fake news, hate speech, and misinformation could threaten national stability.
The former minister said the book offers valuable insights into governance, policy formulation, and communication processes.
He described the publication as a resource for researchers, policy makers, students, and professionals in mass communication and political science, noting that it provides a behind-the-scenes account of decision-making in government.
According to him, the book explains how policies are formulated, defended, and communicated to the public, while also providing context to controversial national issues and stimulating intellectual debates.
“I recommend the book to university professors, administrators, and anyone interested in governance, particularly those who want to understand how the government is run,” he said.
Speaking on his motivation for writing the book, Mohammed stressed the need for Africans to document their own narratives.
“We do not write enough in Africa. If you do not tell your story, others will tell it for you, and they may distort it. It is important to present your perspective with facts and data,” he said.
Mohammed also described the book as a contribution to contemporary history.
“This book is my attempt to provide context and clarity on key issues”, he said.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, commended the donor and described the book as a bridge between academic theory and practical governance.
Egbewole who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Muktar Adeiza, said the book would enrich students’ understanding by exposing them to real-life governance experiences not readily available in textbooks.
“This donation will greatly benefit our students, as it provides insights they may not get from conventional classroom teaching,” he said.
Also speaking, the University Librarian, Prof. Kamaldeen Omopupa, lauded the former minister for the gesture, noting that the book would enhance research and intellectual engagement within the institution.
Omopupa added that the publication covers diverse areas including politics, economy, defence, and social issues, making it a valuable addition to the university’s library resources.
He encouraged students and researchers to explore the book for deeper understanding of governance and strategic communication.
NAN reports that the event was attended by members of the university community, including students, staffers, and other stakeholders.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi
