Minister Assures Nigerians of Economic Transformation In 2024
Nura Mohammed, Abubakar Hassan, Minna
The Nigerian Government has expressed optimism for the reform program in 2024, aiming to benefit Nigerians and citing the positive impact of the current administration’s policies.
During the Grand Finale of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Niger State Council Press Week in Minna, the capital of Niger state, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idiris Malagi, re-echoed this sentiment.
Represented by the Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mr. Jibrin Baba Ndace, the Minister highlighted the 2024 transformation agenda, which focuses on President Bola Tinubu’s policies covering renewable energy, gender equality for economic growth, valuable human assets, national security, and liberalising foreign exchange routines.
“This administration is committed to fighting corruption, ensuring fidelity to the rule of law, and maintaining institutional independence, crucial to their cause.
“Ongoing efforts to implement economic reforms for sustained growth are key to stabilising the cost of living.”
Acknowledging the government’s tough decisions, especially since becoming Minister of Information, Malagi mentioned ongoing efforts to address challenges.
“Citizen engagement through initiatives like the Student Loan Scheme and a presidential initiative for low-cost mass transit, along with various low-interest schemes for businesses and CNG interventions, aim to reduce transportation costs by over 50%,” he added.
Malagi clarified the decision to relocate certain departments of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), emphasising its role in enhancing operational efficiency and streamlining processes of the administration.
He also refuted misinformation about operational costs of the ongoing relocation of some parts of the CBN and FAAN.
Solution Journalism
During the event, Mr. Jibrin Ndace, who was the guest speaker, presented a paper titled “Solution Journalism.”
According to the Director General of Voice of Nigeria, adherence to journalistic standards, fact-checking, and rigorous research are essential to the profession.
He emphasised showcasing effective responses, initiatives, and positive actions, relying on truth.
Ndace further stated that solution journalism is presented within a broader context to offer a comprehensive understanding of the issues.
“Evaluation of the real-world impact, informed and empowered audiences, presenting a balanced view, empowering audiences to engage with positive actions in their communities.”
The Director General emphasised effective collaboration among stakeholders, including policymakers, businesses, and communities, in order to foster the work of journalists for information dissemination.
“Serving as a source of inspiration, encouraging the development and implementation of new ideas and inspiring innovation,” Ndace stated.
He further stressed that
convincing audiences and news organisations of the value of solution journalism will overcome skepticism.
“Striking the right balance between reporting on problems and solutions can balance wider coverage to enhance social coexistence among communities.”
He added that journalists in Niger State need to embrace solution journalism by collaborating more for a promising evolution in news reporting.
“Focusing on solution journalism, journalists in Niger State can support the state government in the proper implementation of its programs and projects in an engaged, informed, and optimistic way for the benefit of the people. However, the government also needs to provide,” he added .
