The Federal Government has emphasised that the media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and promoting accountability in the country.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known in Abuja during the National Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Media Outreach Programme, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Assistant (Media), Rabiu Ibrahim.
The event, themed “The Role of Media in the Fight Against Corruption: Issues and Challenges,” brought together key stakeholders, with the Minister represented by the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Press Council, Dr Dili Ezughah.
“The media is not just an observer in society; it is a powerful force that shapes perception, drives accountability, and influences national direction. Through accurate reporting, investigative journalism, and sustained public enlightenment, the media empowers citizens and strengthens the fight against corruption,” he said.
Idris noted that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has implemented targeted measures to tackle corruption and curb illicit financial flows, positioning Nigeria as an active participant in the global fight against financial crimes.
He explained that recent reforms have enhanced financial intelligence systems, strengthened monitoring of suspicious transactions, and improved compliance with international Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing standards.
According to him, major institutions, including the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, have boosted coordination and enforcement, thereby improving the country’s capacity to detect, investigate, and prevent financial crimes.
He added that reforms within the financial sector, backed by the Central Bank of Nigeria, are promoting transparency and rebuilding confidence in the economy.
“At the regional level, Nigeria continues to work closely with partners such as the Intergovernmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa, reinforcing our shared commitment to combating cross-border financial crimes,” he said.
The Minister further stated that the government’s emphasis on digitalisation and accountability is helping to eliminate loopholes that previously enabled corruption.
However, he pointed out several challenges confronting the media, including the complexity of reporting financial crimes, misinformation, limited resources, and safety concerns.
“These challenges underscore the need for collective action. We must strengthen collaboration between government institutions and the media, invest in capacity building for journalists, and ensure timely access to accurate and credible information,” he said.
He encouraged journalists to develop expertise in specialised reporting areas and uphold high ethical standards, while assuring continued support from the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
“The fight against corruption is a shared responsibility. The government and the media cannot do it alone. But together, we can build a Nigeria where transparency is the norm, accountability is demanded, and corruption has no place to hide,” he said.
Idris also praised the organisers of the programme, stressing that such initiatives are vital for deepening collaboration and advancing anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria and across West Africa.
