Nigeria not collapsing, FG rejects crisis claims

The Federal Government has rejected claims that Nigeria is on the brink of collapse, insisting the country is making steady progress in addressing security and economic challenges.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, spoke on Wednesday in Abuja at the 81st General Assembly and 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON).

The position follows recent warnings by a coalition of civil society organisations, which described the nation as facing worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and governance concerns.

Idris dismissed the claims.

He said: “I want to unequivocally refute the insinuation that Nigeria is on the brink.”

He maintained that the country is showing strength despite its challenges.

He said: “On the contrary, we are daily exhibiting resilience and tackling our security and economic challenges more decisively.”

The minister pointed to ongoing military operations and improved intelligence-sharing, which he said have led to the neutralisation of bandits and disruption of attacks, especially in parts of northern Nigeria.

According to him, these efforts are weakening criminal networks and restoring stability.

He said: “Incidents of large-scale insurgent control have significantly decreased.”

He added that enhanced rapid-response systems are being deployed nationwide to protect lives and property.

On the economy, Idris cited improvements in foreign reserves and expanding revenue from oil and non-oil sectors, linking the gains to ongoing reforms.

He said: “These decisions, though difficult, are stabilising public finances and creating a more transparent economic environment.”

The minister also referenced Nigeria’s reclassification as a Frontier Market by FTSE Russell, describing it as a positive signal to investors.

He said: “This development confirms that Nigeria is once again a viable destination for global investment.”

Addressing broadcasters, Idris urged professionalism and restraint ahead of the election cycle.

He said: “The airwaves are a public trust. Broadcasting must inform, educate, and unite our people while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and accuracy.”

He called for stronger collaboration between the media and public institutions to tackle misinformation and promote unity.

He said: “Difficult moments like this require stronger faith in our country and a deep sense of patriotism.”

Idris also commended BON for promoting ethical standards and expressed confidence in outcomes from the gathering, assuring Nigerians of continued transparency as reforms continue.