By Gabriel Ameh
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged All Progressives Congress (APC) Commissioners of Information across the states to strengthen collaboration and improve how government policies and programmes are communicated to Nigerians.
Idris made the call on Thursday, November 5, 2026, during a meeting with APC Commissioners of Information at Bon Hotel Octagon, Jahi, Abuja.
He said the changing media landscape and growing influence of digital platforms had made effective communication an essential part of governance and public engagement.
The minister stressed that citizens must understand not only the policies being introduced by government but also the reasons behind them, the challenges they are designed to address and their expected benefits.
He identified the commissioners as important links between government and the public, urging them to translate policies into clear messages, provide credible information and correct misconceptions about government activities.
Speaking on the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Idris said ongoing reforms required effective communication across all levels of government to ensure that Nigerians understand the administration’s priorities and policy direction.
He called for stronger communication networks between federal and state institutions, encouraging the commissioners to share experiences, exchange verified information and improve their engagement with traditional and digital media.
The minister also raised concerns about the growing spread of misinformation and disinformation, warning that political communication must not undermine credibility.
According to him, public trust remains a critical asset that can only be sustained through accuracy, transparency, consistency and responsible engagement.
Idris further reminded the commissioners that effective communication must go beyond promoting government activities to listening to citizens, understanding public concerns and allowing feedback to shape government engagement.
He said the meeting should provide an opportunity to establish stronger and more sustainable partnerships among information managers across the states.
The minister expressed confidence that improved cooperation would lead to more coordinated communication, better information sharing and wider public awareness of government policies and development initiatives.
He urged the participants to translate their discussions into practical outcomes that would strengthen responsible communication and contribute to national development.
