Shun fake news, divisive narratives –Minister tasks media, spokespersons

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has tasked government information and public relations officers and the media to work with security agencies in combating fake news, hate speech, and divisive narratives.

Idris gave the charge in Abuja at the opening of a training workshop for Information and Public Relations Officers of Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs.

DAILY POST reports that the training was organised by the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser, NCTC-ONSA, in conjunction with the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ’s Federal Information Chapel.

According to the minister, misinformation could weaken public trust while insecurity could erode freedom of expression, adding that both accurate information and security were essential for peace and stability.

“We must unite in rejecting fake news, hate speech, and divisive narratives. Let us promote messages of peace, progress, and unity,” he said.

The National Coordinator of NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, on his part, stressed the vital role of public information officers in shaping narratives and managing public perception, particularly in times of national crisis.

Laka said the workshop was designed to enhance communication capabilities and foster collaboration across all government institutions involved in national security.According to him, the theme; “Empowering the Messenger: Innovative Approaches to Public Information in the Face of Security Challenges,” aligns with the NCTC’s broader goals of strengthening national resilience and countering extremist ideologies.

“In an era of rapid information flow and evolving security threats, the role of public information officers has never been more critical.

“It will also support the Strategic Communication Inter-Agency Policy Committee (SC-IPC) in harmonising communication strategies across federal agencies to prevent radicalisation and combat violent extremism,” he said.

Shun fake news, divisive narratives –Minister tasks media, spokespersons