By Deji Abdulwahab
Abuja, April 23, 2026 (NAN) The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s openness to international collaboration and direct engagement with the global press.
Idris disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja during an interactive session with foreign media organisations.
He said strong media relationships were vital to shaping Nigeria’s narrative and supporting its transformation agenda.
The minister urged international media organisations to report Nigeria’s story with nuance, reflecting both its challenges and progress.
“Accurate reporting requires holding both truths. We welcome robust engagement and partnership with the international media as we chart this course of renewal,” he said.
The minister highlighted the country’s ambitious reforms and commitment to transparency, economic renewal and stronger international partnerships.
He said Nigeria had embarked on the most comprehensive set of structural reforms in decades, tackling key sectors including the economy, security, tax, education, infrastructure, and social welfare.
“We are embarking on the most comprehensive set of structural reforms in decades, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
“Nigeria’s real GDP grew by 3.87 per cent in 2025, marking a reversal of years of stagnation. For the first time in nearly a decade, economic growth outpaced population growth, signaling renewed momentum in the nation’s economy.
“Fiscal discipline has also been at the forefront, as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the exchange rate have resulted in significant fiscal savings.
“These are being redirected to critical infrastructure and improved social services,” he said.
The minister added that enhanced intelligence-led security operations had contributed to restoring stability across the country.
“In addition, a new legislative push for state police is helping to return autonomy to local governments, further strengthening Nigeria’s governance framework.
“Major investments in agriculture, education and youth empowerment are now yielding tangible results for millions of Nigerians.
“Notably, NELFUND’s interest-free student loans and advancements in digital infrastructure have created new opportunities for the nation’s youth and workforce,” he said.
Also speaking, Mr Taiwo Oyedele, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, said Nigeria’s reform efforts had entered a consolidation phase focused on delivering tangible benefits to citizens.
“We have moved from fragility to stability and now to consolidation, towards productivity and growth that Nigerians will feel in their daily lives,” he noted.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, said the government was intensifying efforts to drive economic diversification <span;>and position Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s growth.
According to her, ongoing efforts are geared towards converting reforms into tangible outcomes, including increased investment, expanded trade and job creation.
“Nigeria is not just participating in Africa’s growth, we are positioning ourselves to lead it through trade, investment, and industrialisation,” she said.
Others at the session included the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga; and Special Adviser to the President on Public Communication and Orientation, Mr Sunday Dare.
Also present at the session were the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Print Media, Malam Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, and other government officials. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Josephine Obute/Funmilayo Adeyemi
