Nigeria Not Facing Religious Genocide: Minister Idris Urges Advertisers to Fight Misinformation

Nigeria is not experiencing any form of religious genocide, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has assured.
The Minister made this clear while addressing advertising and marketing experts, urging them to actively challenge misleading narratives spreading across digital platforms and traditional media spaces.

Speaking at the 5th National Advertising Conference hosted by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) in Abuja on Saturday, Idris emphasized the urgent need for professionals in the communication industry to help correct damaging misinformation circulating about the nation.

According to him, Nigeria continues to face an increasing wave of misinformation, particularly stories and commentaries suggesting that the country is unsafe for religious expression or that specific religious groups are under targeted attack. Idris stressed that such claims are not only inaccurate but also harmful to national unity, brand reputation, and international relations.

He explained that misleading narratives portraying Nigeria as a country struggling with religious intolerance have been amplified across global media and online channels, making it necessary for advertising professionals, digital strategists, and media practitioners to take an active role in protecting the country’s image.

The Minister further noted that the advertising and marketing industry has a powerful influence on public perception and therefore holds a strategic responsibility in countering divisive or false claims. He encouraged industry leaders to use their platforms, campaigns, and creative communication tools to promote verified information and foster peace-building narratives.

Idris also highlighted the importance of responsible information-sharing, especially at a time when unverified claims gain rapid traction on social platforms. He called for deliberate collaboration between government bodies, communication professionals, and regulatory institutions to ensure that truthful content reaches both national and international audiences.

He concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to religious freedom, coexistence, and constitutional rights, urging stakeholders to help reposition the country’s global image through fact-based communication.