Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has commended ActionAid Nigeria for 25 years of action, service, and transformative work across the country.
Speaking at the organisation’s 25th Anniversary in Abuja, the Minister said, “For a quarter of a century, ActionAid has taken development to the frontlines, empowering women and girls, strengthening education, improving healthcare, advocating for governance reforms, supporting communities during crises, and amplifying the voices of the most vulnerable.”
He added that ActionAid must be praised for its numerous responses to humanitarian challenges and grassroots empowerment initiatives that have shaped policy and community development in profound and measurable ways. “Today, we gather to honour this legacy and to look toward the next chapter,” he said.
Idris highlighted two symbolic milestones at the event—the launch of the AAN@25 Legacy Book and the unveiling of the ActionAid building prototype—describing them as strong signals of organisational growth and long-term presence in Nigeria.
“This forward-looking investment reflects ActionAid’s commitment to deepening its contribution to our nation over the next 25 years and beyond. These milestones deserve our collective applause,” he stated.
Addressing misconceptions about Nigeria abroad, Idris stressed that the country is not a violator of religious freedom, reaffirming that such freedoms are clearly guaranteed in the constitution.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s security challenges but emphasised that government efforts are yielding progress.
He cautioned against narratives that mischaracterise Nigeria and strain its relations with partners, particularly the United States, urging civil society groups to help correct these misrepresentations by applying evidence-based insights and taking a constructive role in reshaping false narratives.
Reaffirming the government’s responsibility to protect citizens, especially children, Idris noted, “Our children must be safe in their schools, safe in their communities, and safe in their homes,”.
While highlighting President Tinubu’s recent declaration of a national emergency on security, the Minister explained that the emergency measures include new recruitment into security agencies, support for state-level security outfits, and legislative action towards establishing state police.
He described the declaration as a turning point in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
He concluded by calling on civil society organisations to deepen their support for open governance, media freedom, digital literacy, and community development, affirming that ActionAid’s contributions in these areas remain “complementary and invaluable” to national progress.