In orchestra of governance, each minister in a government plays a crucial note, Mohammed Idris stands as the lead trumpeter—clear, confident, and commanding. As Minister of Information and National Orientation, he doesn’t just speak for the administration; he conducts a symphony of narratives that spotlight President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s milestones, turning policy into poetry for the people.
My research traces the deliberate brushstrokes of Mal. Mohammed Idris, who, like a master painter, uses communication as his canvas. With each stroke be it a speech, press release, or national address he sketches a vision of unity, paints trust across regional divides, and frames the administration’s achievements in vibrant, relatable colors.
Through innovative communication strategies, targeted media engagement, and a commitment to transparency, Mohammed Idris has redefined the relationship between the government and the citizenry, setting a benchmark for effective governance advocacy in Nigeria and beyond.
Since assuming office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has embarked on a series of reforms and initiatives aimed at revitalising Nigeria’s economy, strengthening national security, and promoting sustainable development. However, the success of these efforts hinges not only on their implementation but also on their effective communication to the public.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mal. Mohammed Idris, fnipr, has played a critical role in bridging the gap between the government’s actions and the people’s understanding of them. Join me to highlight the key contributions of Mal. Mohammad Idris in publicising President Tinubu’s achievements and the broader implications for governance and national development.
Mal. Mohammad Idris has adopted different approaches to communication, leveraging traditional and digital media platforms to ensure widespread dissemination of information. His strategy is anchored on three core principles: clarity, consistency, and accessibility.
By simplifying difficult policies and initiatives, Mohammed Idris has made them relatable to the average citizen, fostering a sense of inclusion and participation in the governance process. Regular press briefings, town hall meetings, and media appearances have ensured that the administration’s message remains consistent and credible.
Under Mohammed Idris’s leadership, the Ministry of Information and National Orientation has successfully publicised several of President Tinubu’s landmark achievements. These include:
Economic Reforms: The administration’s efforts to stabilise the naira, attract foreign investment, and create jobs have been effectively communicated through case studies, success stories, and data-driven narratives.
Idris has showcased the government’s investments in roads, railways, and power projects, using visual aids and on-the-ground reporting to highlight their impact.
Initiatives such as the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) have been publicised through grassroots campaigns, ensuring that beneficiaries understand and appreciate the government’s efforts.
The administration’s strides in combating insurgency and fostering regional stability have been communicated through partnerships with international media outlets, enhancing Nigeria’s global image.
Beyond publicising achievements, the ministry has prioritised national orientation, promoting values of unity, patriotism, and civic responsibility. Through initiatives like the “Nigeria First” campaign, he has encouraged citizens to take pride in their national identity and contribute to the country’s progress. This approach has not only strengthened public trust in the government but also fostered a sense of collective ownership of the nation’s development.
While Mal. Mohammed Idris’s efforts have been largely successful, challenges such as misinformation, apathy, and limited access to media in rural areas remain. To address these, the Ministry has embraced innovative solutions, including partnerships with community radio stations, social media influencers, and grassroots organisations. These efforts underscore the importance of adaptability and inclusivity in governance communication.
Mal. Mohammed Idris’s contributions to publicising President Tinubu’s achievements have been instrumental in shaping public perception and fostering national unity. His strategic communication framework serves as a model for other nations seeking to enhance governance advocacy and citizen engagement.
As Nigeria continues on its path to development, the role of effective communication in sustaining public trust and driving collective action cannot be overstated. Mal. Idris’s work stands as a proof to the transformative power of information in governance.
* Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon is Fellow Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Institute of Management Consultants, Chronicle Business School, Abuja, Researcher and resource person at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja.
