Nigeria not on the brink of collapse, says information minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has dismissed concerns by civil society organisations that Nigeria is on the verge of collapse, insisting that the country remains stable and resilient.

Mr Idris spoke during the 81st General Assembly and 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, BON, where he described recent claims about Nigeria’s fragility as unfounded.

“I want to unequivocally refute the insinuation that Nigeria is on the brink. On the contrary, we are daily exhibiting resilience and tackling our security and economic challenges more decisively,” the minister said.

His remarks follow criticisms by more than 50 civil society organisations, which on Tuesday accused the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu of failing Nigerians.

The groups warned that worsening insecurity, rising poverty, and governance challenges were pushing the country toward instability.

Responding to the concerns, Mr Idris maintained that ongoing military operations across the country were yielding positive results.

He cited recent interventions in Zamfara and Niger states, where security forces reportedly neutralised bandits and thwarted planned attacks.

“Coordinated operations by the Armed Forces and other security agencies have led to sustained gains in several parts of the country,” he said.

“Incidents of large-scale insurgent control have significantly decreased, and we are strengthening intelligence and rapid response systems to protect lives and property.”

On the economy, the minister pointed to what he described as improving macroeconomic indicators, noting that Nigeria is on a path to recovery.

According to him, foreign reserves are strengthening, investor confidence is gradually returning, and reforms in both the oil and non-oil sectors are expanding government revenue.

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

Mr Idris also referenced Nigeria’s recent reclassification to Frontier Market status by FTSE Russell, describing it as a sign of renewed global confidence.

“This development confirms that Nigeria is once again a viable destination for global investment, with international funds expected to increase participation in our capital market,” he added.

The minister further urged media organisations to uphold professionalism and avoid content that could inflame tensions, particularly as the country moves closer to another election cycle.

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

He also called for stronger collaboration between the government and the media to counter misinformation, warning against narratives that could create fear or division.

“Difficult moments like this require stronger faith in our country and a deep sense of patriotism, not narratives that create fear or division,” Mr Idris said.