By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged Commissioners of Information in APC-controlled states to strengthen collaboration with the Federal Government in coordinating public communication and projecting the policies and achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Idris made the call on Thursday in Abuja during a meeting with 20 Commissioners of Information from states governed by the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Minister described effective communication as a critical instrument of governance, stressing the need for a coordinated approach to ensure that Nigerians understand the objectives, challenges and expected benefits of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He said the administration’s reforms were designed to strengthen the economy, expand opportunities, improve infrastructure and accelerate national development, noting that communicating these policies effectively was essential to securing public understanding and engagement.
“Effective communication is no longer optional. It is an essential instrument of leadership, governance and public engagement,” he stated.
The Minister urged the commissioners to strengthen communication channels between federal and state institutions, share verified information and maximize the use of traditional and digital media platforms to reach citizens.
He also cautioned against the spread of misinformation and disinformation, emphasizing that accuracy, transparency and responsible engagement were essential to maintaining public confidence in government.
“Our greatest asset is public trust, and that trust can only be sustained through accuracy, transparency, consistency and responsible engagement,” Idris declared.
He further called for greater attention to citizens’ concerns and public sentiment, stressing that government communication should not be limited to disseminating information but should also incorporate feedback from the people.
“Effective communication is a two-way process. We must pay attention to citizens’ concerns, understand public sentiment and ensure that feedback informs how the government engages with the people,” he said.
Idris described the meeting as an opportunity to establish a sustained partnership among information managers at both federal and state levels, with a view to improving information coordination and strengthening public engagement.
The meeting was attended by 20 Commissioners of Information from APC-led states, who deliberated with the Minister on strategies for enhancing intergovernmental communication and ensuring more effective dissemination of government policies and programmes
