The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged foreign media outlets to focus on the positive stories emerging from the country rather than just the bad ones.

During a business visit to the BBC Headquarters in London, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, made the call.

A statement released on Tuesday, 27 August 2024, and signed by his media assistant, Rabiu Ibrahim, states that the minister’s visit is a component of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation’s larger initiatives to forge connections with both domestic and international media organizations.

During the meeting with senior BBC executives, Jonathan Munro, the Director of the BBC World Service and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of BBC News. Idris emphasized the need for media outlets with global reach to comprehend the socio-political and cultural contexts of the regions they cover.

As a result, he said, “Media organizations with a global audience have a responsibility to enhance their understanding of the socio-political, economic, and cultural aspects of the societies they cover. The media is essential in creating the correct narratives, understanding, and development.”

Idris demanded more impartial reporting while applauding the BBC for its contribution as a major narrator of Nigeria’s political history. In particular, he urged the BBC to promote positive outcomes and tales that inspire optimism to highlight Nigeria’s progress and triumphs.

“There is a growing youth population in Nigeria who are exceptionally motivated to take advantage of opportunities even when faced with great obstacles; this calls for greater focus on positive outcomes in Nigeria,” Idris said.

In addition, the minister spoke about the growing problem of false information and fake news, which he called a major obstacle for young people in Nigeria and around the world. To preserve reliable and accountable media ecosystems, he asked the BBC to step up its efforts to tackle these dangers and to collaborate with foreign partners.

Idris praised the BBC for bringing more language programming to Nigeria, including Pidgin, Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba broadcasts. He pointed out that these initiatives had enhanced the flow of information and given Nigerians job and training opportunities.

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