FG URGES YOUTHS TO COMBAT FAKE NEWS, SAYS SOCIAL MEDIA SHOULD UNIFY, NOT DIVIDE
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has urged Nigerian youths to embrace responsible digital engagement by refraining from spreading fake news and unverified content on social media platforms. Speaking in Abuja at the Nigerian Tulip International Colleges (NTIC) youth programme themed “Passion,” Idris underscored the growing influence of social media and warned that its misuse poses a serious threat to national unity and public trust.
He advised young people to think critically before sharing information online. “If you don’t believe a message, please don’t share. If you share, you should know you are either advancing the world or leading it to destruction,” he said. Idris emphasized that social media should be used to build bridges, not create divisions among citizens, especially in a country as diverse as Nigeria.
The minister also recounted his personal journey into broadcasting, noting how early passion led to long-term success despite obstacles. “I didn’t get the opportunity at age 16, but now I have achieved a lot in the media industry. Today, I have found a new dream and I’m actualising it; so, it is not too late to start pursuing your passion,” he said, encouraging the youth to remain determined and focused on their goals.
Highlighting efforts by the federal government to improve media literacy, Idris revealed that Nigeria is working in partnership with UNESCO to establish Africa’s first Category 2 Media and Information Literacy Centre. Scheduled to be launched in Abuja, the centre is expected to serve as a global model for combating misinformation and promoting digital responsibility.
The event’s host, NTIC Managing Director Feyzullah Bilgin, commended the TEDx Abuja Youth platform for offering students the opportunity to express their creativity and vision through powerful ideas. He stated that all speakers at the programme had their presentations approved for publication on TEDx’s global YouTube page, which boasts over 42 million followers.
Bilgin reaffirmed the school’s commitment to fostering innovation and empowering young minds to make meaningful contributions to society, noting that this year’s theme, “Passion,” was selected to inspire students to pursue their goals with purpose and courage.
