The Minister of Information, Muhammed Idris, has urged Nigerians to support government efforts toward effective crisis communication, which he said, is crucial to addressing insecurity, promoting unity, and national development.
The minister made the call on Monday in Abuja, at a national symposium on digital innovation in crisis communication.
The symposium, themed: ”Leveraging Emerging Technologies to Transform Crisis Communication,” aimed to explore innovative approaches to crisis communication and promote collaboration among stakeholders.
The minister was represented by the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Ndace, at the event organised by Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC).
His speech was delivered against the backdrop of ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, highlighting the need for effective crisis communication in promoting national unity and stability.
Idris highlighted the dual nature of technology, noting that it presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly in the context of misinformation and propaganda during emergencies.
He stressed the need for media institutions to play a proactive role in promoting accurate and reliable information, citing the importance of authoritative and trusted voices in times of uncertainty.
The minister emphasised the need for Nigerians to come together to address the country’s insecurity challenges, urging media professionals to shape narratives that promote unity and support for security agencies.
He called on the media and other stakeholders to rally around the flag and give support to the armed forces and other security agencies.
Idris also urged professionals to treat combatants, who have paid the supreme price with respect, emphasising the importance of responsible reporting in promoting a sense of value for human life.
He expressed confidence that the symposium’s insights and recommendations would contribute to shaping policies and enhancing Nigeria’s communication framework.
The minister acknowledged the presence of security experts, ICT leaders, academia, and civil society representatives, emphasising the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges of crisis communication.
He specifically recognised the leadership of retired Maj-Gen. Chris Olukolade, Chairman of the CCC, and other media strategists.
Idris expressed appreciation to the National Defense College for hosting the event and commended the CCC for its efforts in promoting crisis communication.
The minister officially declared the symposium open, wishing participants a fruitful and engaging deliberation.
The VON DG in his personal remarks assured the CCC of the support of the agency and emphasised the importance of unity in addressing the country’s challenges.
Olukolade urged Nigeria to treat crisis communication as a strategic national‑security asset, not a peripheral function.
He defined crisis communication as “the deliberate, coordinated, and timely dissemination of accurate information before, during, and after a crisis.”
The chairman stressed that it served as the bridge linking emergency managers to citizens ,who depend on clear guidance.
He highlighted contemporary crises as ranging from climate‑induced disasters and public‑health emergencies, to cyber‑attacks and social unrest.
Olukolade said that the crises had become more frequent, complex, and, paradoxically, more predictable, testing the nation’s resilience and the credibility of its communication infrastructure.
He noted that emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, big‑data analytics, geospatial mapping, and mobile analytics are now game‑changers.
According to him, the emerging technologies can detect early warning signals, instantly disseminate verified information, and counter misinformation in real time.
He emphasised that effective crisis response now hinged on seamless coordination among security agencies, policymakers, ICT regulators, and development partners.
The CCC chairman urged all security agencies to integrate digital tools to close the gaps in information flow and build public trust.(NAN)
IAA/YEN
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Edited by Mark Longyen
Edited by Mark Longyen