By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to fostering a secure and transparent environment essential for peaceful and credible elections in 2027.
Speaking at the 8th Public Lecture, Impact Series and Awards of Excellence organized by Blueprint Newspapers Limited in Abuja, Minister Idris emphasized the critical role of security and information integrity in shaping the outcome of elections.
The event, themed “Security Challenges and Integrity of Nigeria’s 2027 Elections,” brought together policymakers, media professionals, academics, and other stakeholders to deliberate on national security and electoral integrity.
Minister Idris praised Blueprint Newspapers for sustaining this annual platform, describing it as a vital forum for engaging on issues of national importance. He highlighted that the integrity of elections extends beyond election day, encompassing the security environment, institutional credibility, political conduct, media professionalism, and the quality of information accessible to citizens.
“For the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the security and welfare of Nigerians remain fundamental responsibilities of the government,” Idris stated. He assured that the Federal Government would continue to deploy resources, personnel, and technology to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats.
Addressing the rising menace of misinformation and disinformation, especially with advances in Artificial Intelligence enabling the creation of fabricated audio, video, and images, the Minister warned that democracy cannot thrive where citizens are deliberately misled.
He noted the Ministry’s partnership with UNESCO and other stakeholders in establishing the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) in Abuja to enhance media and information literacy.
Salisu Umar, Managing Director/CEO of Blueprint Newspapers, explained that the annual lecture, initiated in 2018, serves as a platform to discuss pressing national issues beyond traditional media while honoring Nigerians who have demonstrated exemplary leadership and impact.
The Chairman of the Occasion, Senator Abdul’Aziz Yari Abubakar, former Governor of Zamfara State, stressed that insecurity is a collective responsibility that goes beyond security agencies to include political leaders, communities, and citizens. Drawing from his government experience, Senator Yari cautioned against politicizing insecurity and urged Nigerians to unite in confronting the challenge for a safer nation.
His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Yahaya Abubakar, CFR, Etsu Nupe, represented by the Andoma of Doma, lauded Blueprint Newspapers for its contribution to national discourse and called on Nigerians to remain committed to unity and development. He emphasized Nigeria’s vast human and intellectual potential and declared, “there is no alternative to indivisible Nigeria.”
The Guest Speaker, Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), represented by Major General O.T. Akinjobi, highlighted the evolving nature of election security. He explained that protecting polling units alone is no longer sufficient; election security now includes countering cyber interference, misinformation, and efforts to undermine democratic legitimacy. He advocated for intelligence-led security planning, enhanced cybersecurity, inter-agency coordination, strategic communication, and increased citizen participation.
Minister Idris congratulated Blueprint Newspapers, speakers, and award recipients, underscoring that recognizing outstanding contributions encourages continued dedication to public service and professional excellence. He expressed optimism about the strengthening of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to peace, stability, national unity, and sustainable development.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Governors Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Ahmad Aliyu (Sokoto), Senator Bassey Edet Otu (Cross River), Peter Ndubuisi Mbah (Enugu), and Agbu Kefas (Taraba), as well as former Governors, Ministers, party officials, and heads of key national media and regulatory bodies.
