The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on Nigerian youth to verify information before sharing it, warning that false information poses a serious moral and national challenge.
The Minister gave the advice while speaking at the 20th Joint Ramadan Lecture organised by the Nigerian Television Authority, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, and Voice of Nigeria in Kaduna.
He cautioned that while digital platforms provide vast opportunities for communication and innovation, their misuse can deepen divisions and undermine national unity if not guided by responsibility and truth.
According to the Minister, the rise of digital technology has created both opportunities and moral tests, making verification of information a critical civic duty for citizens, especially young people.
He also highlighted several youth empowerment initiatives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at leveraging technology to create economic opportunities.
These include the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), as well as the establishment of Africa’s first Media and Information Literacy Institute.
The Minister noted that Nigeria’s large youth population remains one of the nation’s greatest strengths, stressing that the country’s future depends on how well young people are guided and supported.
He therefore urged young Nigerians to use digital platforms for education, innovation and national development rather than spreading misinformation.
The Minister also emphasised that protecting Nigeria’s information space cannot be the responsibility of government alone, calling on parents, educators, religious leaders and media practitioners to work together to promote responsible digital engagement.
The Ramadan lecture attracted several dignitaries including the Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani represented at the event; the Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi; the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha; the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli; and the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, among other distinguished guests.
By Rabiu Ibrahim