“Minister: No Fanfare for President Tinubu’s One-Year Anniversary”
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has announced that there will be no elaborate celebrations to mark President Bola Tinubu’s one year in office. Instead, low-key activities will be held to commemorate the anniversary.
Speaking at a World Press Conference on Wednesday to kick off “Ministerial Sectoral Updates” as part of the anniversary activities, Idris emphasized that the prevailing national mood precludes any form of extravagant celebration.
He stated, “There won’t be any form of celebrations; there will be sectoral briefings.”
Idris underscored the critical role of the media in the Nigerian project and urged journalists to report responsibly and patriotically. He emphasized that while press freedom is vital, it comes with responsibilities.
Highlighting President Tinubu’s commitment to press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy, the Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to keeping the public informed about its policies and achievements.
Addressing concerns about the proliferation of fake news, Idris urged the media to collaborate with the government in combating this phenomenon, which he likened to a more significant threat to the nation than cancer.
The Minister’s remarks reflect a pragmatic approach to marking the President’s anniversary amid the challenges facing the nation, underscoring the importance of responsible journalism and constructive engagement in national development.