By Mercy Peter
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called for calm, unity, and a sober national response to recent foreign commentaries about Nigeria, urging citizens and the media to rise above divisive narratives and “think and behave as Nigerians.”
Speaking at a diplomatic gathering in Abuja after attending the Eurasian People’s Council meeting, the minister said his late arrival was due to commitments at the earlier conference, but emphasised that he could not miss the occasion, which, he said, symbolised African unity and mutual respect among nations.
“These great gentlemen, the generals, the army officers have helped shape the African continent,” Idris said, paying tribute to past and serving military leaders who have strengthened the continent’s stability.
He lamented that “the spirit of brotherhood that once bound African countries” is being eroded by divisive rhetoric, and urged Nigerians to reclaim that legacy of unity.
He recalled his youthful memories of independence-era celebrations and pan-African speeches, saying those ideals should continue to inspire Nigerians in defending the nation’s image and cohesion.
Addressing recent remarks by foreign leaders, particularly those from the United States, Idris dismissed attempts to portray Nigeria as a country that fails to uphold religious freedom.
“In the last few days… the President of the United States is trying to characterise Nigeria as a country that does not [respect] religious freedom,” he said. “Such portrayals are wrong and must be addressed through diplomatic channels.”
He acknowledged Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, which he noted affect people of all faiths, but insisted that these do not define the nation’s identity.
“Yes, we have security challenges. But to characterise Nigeria as a country that does not ensure religious freedom, I think it’s wrong,” he stated, revealing that his office is “actively engaging foreign interlocutors and generals” to correct these misconceptions.
The minister stressed that diplomacy, not confrontation, is the government’s preferred path.
“We are trying as much as possible to make sure that this is resolved through diplomatic channels,” he said, appealing to Nigerians to remain calm and patriotic.
“This is not a time for politics. This is not a time to say what you believe and what you don’t. This is a time to think and behave as a Nigerian.”
Idris made a passionate appeal to the Nigerian media and political class to show restraint and responsibility in their reportage and commentary.
“We must challenge the Nigerian media for reciprocation,” he declared. “Our media must tell stories that strengthen our national unity, not those that tear it apart.”
He warned against inflammatory speech and sensationalism that could deepen divisions, saying:
“If you fire the first shot, you don’t know when the last one will be fired.”
The minister maintained that the federal government remains calm, focused, and open to dialogue. “The government is listening,” he said, urging Nigerians to be patient and patriotic as diplomatic engagements continue.
Idris extended appreciation to the diplomatic corps and military figures present at the gathering, acknowledging their ongoing support for Nigeria’s peace and unity efforts.
He cited expressions of solidarity from the Air Force Commission, the African Union, and the European Union, describing these as encouraging signs of constructive international engagement.
He also singled out Ambassador Rahul, describing him as “a very passionate diplomat,” and thanked foreign missions for their cooperation.
“My sister Maneo told me last night that if you don’t come to this event, I will not judge you,” he recounted with a smile, explaining that her gentle insistence convinced him to attend despite his earlier commitments.
The Minister concluded by reasserting Nigeria’s pivotal role in Africa’s political and diplomatic landscape. He praised the country’s enduring partnership with nations such as Angola, highlighting decades of mutual support and continental cooperation.
“Nigeria is not just Angola. Nigeria is indeed a big brother to Africa,” Idris said, urging global actors to recognise the country’s contributions rather than defining it through challenges.
He appealed to both citizens and the international community to “recognise what Nigeria is and what it truly represents” a diverse yet united nation that continues to serve as a stabilising force in Africa.
Ending on a reflective note, he urged Nigerians to let conscience guide their actions.
“You must have a conscience first before anything is possible,” he said. “This is a time for unity, for collective restraint, and for choosing dialogue over division.”
