Nigeria is not teetering on the edge of disaster, according to the Minister of Information

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has categorically denied claims that Nigeria is on the verge of collapse, instead asserting that the country is making steady progress in addressing its security and economic challenges.

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Idris made this statement on Wednesday at the 81st General Assembly and 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, which took place in Abuja, where he emphasized the country's stability and progress.

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The minister refuted the notion that Nigeria is nearing collapse, saying "we are daily exhibiting resilience and tackling our security and economic challenges more decisively", and highlighted the government's efforts to address these issues.

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Regarding security, Idris assured Nigerians that ongoing military operations and enhanced intelligence coordination are yielding positive results, citing recent operations in Zamfara and Niger states as examples.

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He noted that coordinated efforts by the Armed Forces and other security agencies have significantly reduced incidents of large-scale insurgent activity, while improved intelligence and rapid response systems are being strengthened to safeguard lives and property.

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On the economy, Idris stated that key indicators point to recovery and growing investor confidence, noting that ongoing reforms are beginning to deliver results, with Nigeria's foreign reserves strengthening and investor confidence improving.

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The minister highlighted that reforms in both the oil and non-oil sectors are expanding revenue streams, and that these decisions are stabilising public finances and creating a more transparent economic environment.

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Nigeria's recent return to Frontier Market status by FTSE Russell was also cited by Idris as a strong signal of renewed global confidence in the country's economy, reflecting improved foreign exchange liquidity, enhanced market transparency, and easier capital repatriation.

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This development, according to Idris, confirms that Nigeria is once again a viable destination for global investment, with international funds expected to increase participation in the country's capital market.

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Addressing media stakeholders, the minister called for responsible and accurate reporting, particularly as the country approaches another election cycle, emphasizing the critical role of broadcasters in shaping public perception and promoting national unity.

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Idris stressed that the airwaves are a public trust, and that broadcasting must continue to inform, educate, and unite the people, while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and accuracy.

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The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to supporting a free and responsible media environment and urged stronger collaboration between government and media institutions to combat misinformation and foster national cohesion.

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Idris commended the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria for its role in promoting professionalism in the broadcasting industry and encouraged stakeholders to continue working together to strengthen democracy and national development.

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The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan; Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission, Charles Ebuebu; and Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority and Chairman of BON, Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos, among other dignitaries.

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The minister formally declared the 81st BON General Assembly open, expressing optimism that the gathering would produce practical solutions to advance the broadcasting sector.