Abuja, July 9, 2025
The Federal Government has said that Nigeria’s economy is on the path to recovery, crediting the steady improvement to the bold and far-reaching reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the newly elected executives of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said that although the economy is still facing challenges, visible progress is being made across key sectors.
“The economy is not yet what we want it to be, but we can see that there is steady progression,” Idris said. “The President has repeatedly said we are turning the corner. It may not be El-dorado yet, but we cannot ignore the gains.”
The Minister pointed out that global rating agencies have also started giving Nigeria favorable reviews, citing improved economic indicators and better fiscal management.
He highlighted the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates as key reforms driving renewed investor confidence and long-term economic stability. According to him, these policies are already yielding benefits, including a more transparent forex market and a reduction in government expenditure leakages.
Idris also announced that about 300,000 students are currently benefiting from the newly launched Students Loan Scheme, which he described as a major intervention in human capital development.
“Because of this deliberate and intentional policy of the government, over 300,000 Nigerian students that would have been out of school now have the opportunity to continue their education with full government support for tuition and upkeep,” he noted.
On the security front, the Minister said the government remains resolute in tackling violent crimes and terrorism. He called on the media to report not only on attacks but also on the achievements and sacrifices of the Armed Forces in their ongoing operations nationwide.
“It is important that we highlight the victories of our security forces. The narrative must not always favour those who seek to destabilize the country,” he said.
While acknowledging the media’s role in holding government accountable, Idris urged editors to complement their criticism with patriotic reporting that fosters peace, unity, and national stability.
In response to the Law Reform Report submitted by the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the Minister pledged to collaborate with the Minister of Justice and set up a committee within his ministry to study the recommendations in detail.
He reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression, calling them pillars of Nigeria’s democracy. However, he also encouraged journalists to exercise their freedom responsibly and in the interest of national cohesion.
Earlier, the Deputy President of the Guild, Dr. Sebastian Abu, said their visit was to formally present the Law Reform Report, which highlights outdated legal provisions that hinder media practice. He expressed confidence that the report would inspire reforms to create a freer and more enabling environment for journalism in Nigeria.
