Nigerian Government Admits Economy Is Not Yet Ideal, But Sees Steady Progress Under Tinubu Administration.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has revealed that Nigeria’s economy is on a gradual path to recovery under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, attributing this to comprehensive reform efforts across multiple sectors.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday during a courtesy call by members and newly elected officials of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), the minister emphasized that while the country still faces economic hurdles, the ongoing efforts are yielding measurable results.

According to Idris, although Nigeria has yet to reach its desired economic state, positive indicators of advancement are increasingly evident. He explained that the Tinubu-led administration is “turning the corner” and pushing beyond past economic limitations.

“The economy is not yet where we envision it, but signs of steady growth are clear. President Tinubu continues to reassure the nation that we’re making a turn toward stability. While some may argue that Nigeria hasn’t yet reached an ideal state, I insist that visible progress is being achieved,” the minister noted.

He also pointed out that international rating organizations have begun acknowledging Nigeria’s strides, providing the country with modest but promising economic ratings. These, he said, are reflective of the improving management of the economy.

The minister further credited key policy reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates as major contributors to the ongoing economic improvements.

In addressing education reforms, Idris highlighted the Federal Government’s significant intervention through the Student Loan Scheme, which now supports roughly 300,000 students. He said these beneficiaries, who might otherwise be unable to afford tuition or sustain themselves in school, are receiving full academic and welfare sponsorship from the government.

“Thanks to the government’s targeted and deliberate policy, more than 300,000 Nigerian students are currently receiving tuition and maintenance support. Many of these students were previously unable to afford an education. This is a landmark achievement,” Idris stated.

On national security, the minister assured that the Tinubu administration is taking firm steps to resolve security challenges. He noted continued successes in combating violent crime and insurgency throughout the country.

Calling for responsible media engagement, Idris urged journalists and news outlets to support the Armed Forces by highlighting their victories and sacrifices, instead of amplifying the notoriety of violent groups such as bandits and terrorists.

“It’s critical that we, as media professionals, do not glorify the actions of criminals or insurgents above the efforts of patriotic citizens. The press must play a constructive role in shaping national security narratives,” he stressed.

He further advocated for more balanced coverage — not just of attacks and conflicts, but also the relentless dedication of security personnel across the country. According to Idris, amplifying military victories can discourage criminal activities and boost troop morale.

The minister acknowledged that while the media must hold government officials accountable through fair criticism, journalists must also help broadcast the administration’s achievements to promote national confidence.

In response to a Law Reform Report presented by the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the minister promised to collaborate with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation. He also pledged to form a committee within his ministry to review the report comprehensively.

Idris reaffirmed that one of President Tinubu’s core policy principles is the protection of press freedom and freedom of expression, which he described as foundational to Nigeria’s democratic system. However, he called on media professionals to practice these freedoms with a deep sense of national responsibility, highlighting the importance of promoting peace, unity, and social harmony.

The minister closed his remarks by congratulating the new leaders of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and reaffirmed his dedication to fostering closer collaboration between the media and the government.

Earlier, Dr. Sebastian Abu, the Deputy President of the Guild, explained the purpose of the visit — to officially present the Guild’s Law Reform Committee report. He said the document identifies outdated and restrictive laws in Nigeria’s legal framework that must be amended or eliminated to ensure a freer and more supportive environment for journalism in the country.