FG Urges Media to Avoid Amplifying Terrorists’ Agenda
By Auwal Abdullahi
The Federal Government has called on media organizations to exercise restraint and professionalism in reporting terrorist activities, warning that sensational coverage could inadvertently advance the objectives of terror groups.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the appeal during a special national security briefing on Thursday at Radio House in Abuja.
According to the minister, while the media has a constitutional responsibility to report accurately and hold institutions accountable, journalists must remain mindful of the broader national security implications of their coverage.
“Terrorist groups seek publicity, fear and psychological impact far beyond the immediate scene of their crimes,” Idris said. “Responsible reporting, guided by professionalism and national interest, can help deny them this objective.”
He stressed that terrorists thrive on fear, division, misinformation and public despair, noting that their goal extends beyond physical attacks to undermining national unity and public confidence in institutions.
The minister urged media outlets to verify information thoroughly before publication and avoid sensational headlines or reports that could magnify the impact of terrorist acts.
He described the fight against insecurity as a collective responsibility that requires collaboration among government, security agencies, the media and citizens.
Idris also called on Nigerians to support ongoing counterterrorism efforts by sharing credible intelligence and reporting suspicious activities to relevant authorities.
“The fight against insecurity cannot be won by any single institution acting alone. It requires partnership, trust and a common purpose,” he said.
The minister’s appeal came amid renewed security concerns following the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State and a terrorist attack on a school in Borno State.
He assured Nigerians that security agencies remain actively engaged in rescue operations and broader efforts to combat terrorism across the country.
Idris further urged citizens to reject divisive narratives and remain united against terrorism, stressing that an attack on any Nigerian, regardless of location, ethnicity or religion, is an attack on the nation as a whole.
