By Anas Abbas
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on international media outlets to provide fair, accurate, and objective coverage of Nigeria.
Receiving a BBC delegation in his office on Thursday, August 15, Idris emphasized the importance of balanced reporting, highlighting both challenges and positive developments in the country.
Idris emphasized the importance of balanced and unbiased reporting and highlighted that Nigeria, like other countries, faces challenges. He also urged the international media to provide a complete and nuanced portrayal rather than focusing solely on negative aspects.
While acknowledging press freedom, Idris encouraged international media to showcase Nigeria’s progress and achievements. He commended the BBC’s expansion in Nigeria, including its Hausa Service studio relocation to Abuja, engaging 200 Nigerians.
Idris also appreciated the BBC’s capacity-building initiatives for public media journalists and requested similar support for private outlets.
BBC’s Director of Global News, Jonathan Munro, praised Nigeria’s strong reputation for the BBC, citing 30 million weekly visitors to their news services, making Nigeria their third-largest international audience.