The Federal Government has called on Nigerian media organisations to avoid giving prominent coverage to terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups, warning that such publicity may inadvertently strengthen their influence and undermine national security efforts.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the appeal on Thursday, June 18, during a two-day National Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja.
He urged journalists and editors to exercise discretion in reporting security-related incidents, stressing that while the media must report events, it is equally important to consider what should not be prominently published in the interest of nation-building.
According to him, excessive visibility for criminal groups on front pages serves their interests and distracts from the efforts of security agencies working to restore peace.
Idris also emphasised the need for stronger media focus on the achievements and sacrifices of security personnel who risk their lives to protect the country.
He added that national stability remains essential for the survival of the media industry and broader democratic institutions, urging stakeholders to contribute to sustaining peace and security in the country.