The Federal Government has urged bloggers, online publishers, content creators and digital influencers to use their platforms to promote national development, civic engagement and social cohesion, warning that the growing influence of online media places greater responsibility on creators to uphold truth, accuracy and ethical communication.
Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, made the call on Monday at the Niger State Bloggers, Online Publishers and Content Developers Forum in Abuja.
Idris said digital platforms have transformed how Nigerians access information, engage in public debate and influence policy discussions, making content creators key stakeholders in strengthening democracy and fostering informed public discourse.
“Digital platforms” Idris said, “ offer enormous opportunities for innovation and civic engagement but must be used responsibly to promote truth, national unity and constructive public discourse.”
As misinformation and disinformation continue to challenge governments, institutions and citizens worldwide, the minister urged bloggers and online publishers to strengthen fact-checking practices before publishing content.
The minister noted that young Nigerians involved in digital content creation should view their work as more than a source of income, recognising that their platforms are powerful tools for educating citizens, promoting national unity and contributing to the country’s development.
He said bloggers and influencers now play a significant role in shaping public opinion, making it imperative for them to publish accurate, balanced and verified information that contributes positively to society.
“There is no democracy that can thrive without a responsible media. You cannot carry freedom and abandon responsibility,” he said.
Idris added that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to protecting press freedom while encouraging ethical journalism across both traditional and digital media platforms.
As misinformation and disinformation continue to challenge governments, institutions and citizens worldwide, the minister urged bloggers and online publishers to strengthen fact-checking practices before publishing content.
He advised them to reject false narratives, avoid sensationalism and ensure that the information they disseminate contributes to public understanding rather than confusion.
Idris also encouraged content creators to use their platforms to educate, inspire and empower citizens, stressing that responsible storytelling can help foster peace, strengthen democratic values and encourage active civic participation.
He highlighted the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen digital literacy through the establishment of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute.
According to the minister, IMILI is the world’s first UNESCO Category 2 Institute dedicated exclusively to Media and Information Literacy.
He said the institute is expected to equip citizens with critical thinking skills needed to identify misinformation, evaluate digital content and participate responsibly in the online information ecosystem.
Idris further encouraged aspiring bloggers, online publishers and digital entrepreneurs to invest in continuous learning, develop professional skills and uphold ethical standards that will strengthen the credibility of Nigeria’s online media ecosystem.
Maintaining professionalism and integrity, Idris added, would not only improve public confidence in digital media but also create greater opportunities for sustainable growth within Nigeria’s expanding digital economy.
The minister’s remarks underscore the Federal Government’s broader efforts to encourage responsible digital participation and strengthen information integrity as online platforms continue to play an increasingly influential role in governance, public engagement and national development.
Author
Technology Times Reporter
oladapo.rilwan@technologytimes.ng
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