By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria
The Federal Government has called for greater responsibility in the use of language in security operations, media reporting, and public discourse, warning that careless or inaccurate definitions can deepen divisions and undermine national unity.
The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known at a conference organised by the Whiteink Institute for Strategy Education and Research Nigeria on addressing stereotyping and ethnic profiling in security discourse. He was represented by the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council, Dr. Dili Ezughah.
At event, he said: “Definitions are not neutral. They carry weight. They influence how communities are seen and how they are treated.”
The Minister warned that careless use of language could reinforce stereotypes and create mistrust between citizens and institutions, especially in a diverse society like Nigeria.
“We must distinguish clearly between criminal behavior and identity.”
He stressed the need to avoid linking criminal activities to ethnic or religious groups, noting that individuals should be held accountable without generalising blame.
The Minister also highlighted ongoing government efforts to promote unity and rebuild trust, including the National Values Charter, which he said outlines responsibilities for both government and citizens.
“A comprehensive framework… proposes a carefully phased transition to a decentralized policing system over a 60-month period.”
He added that the Federal Government is strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture to address threats such as terrorism, banditry, and organised crime, while maintaining collaboration with international partners.
The Minister urged media practitioners to uphold professionalism, emphasising the need for accurate and context-sensitive reporting in the digital age.
Idris added: “Reporting must be responsible, verified and sensitive to context. The consequences of misinformation or careless f
raming can be severe.”
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