Nigerian media outlets have been encouraged by the Federal Government to refrain from providing significant coverage to terrorist organizations, bands, and other criminal groups. They have warned that doing so could exacerbate their actions and jeopardize national security initiatives.

At a two-day National Security Summit held in Abuja on Thursday, June 18, by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Department of State Services (DSS), Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris made the plea.

“Yes, we have to do our work. We have to report whatever happens but you must know that the best reporter, the best editor, is the one who knows what not to report in the interest of nation-building.

Please, take these terrorists and criminals off your front pages. This is what they crave, free of charge. It saddens me when I see our front pages reporting the activities of these criminals while underplaying the achievements of our security agencies,” he said

Idris contends that the existence and expansion of the media sector depend on a safe and tranquil country. He urged reporters to emphasize the accomplishments and sacrifices made by security guards who continue to put their lives in danger to defend the nation.

“Before we can even have a union or any other media organization, we need a Nigeria to report.” We must all work together to safeguard the survival of this country,” he stated.