FG ‘ll promote patriotism to fight terrorism, banditry – Information Minister

Friday Omosola Politics 22/12/2023

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasised that fostering patriotism and nationalism is a strategic approach to combating violent crimes like banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the country.

He conveyed this message on Friday in Abuja while welcoming General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, during a courtesy visit to his office.

Idris reiterated that cultivating a sense of patriotism and nurturing a strong national identity is the most effective method to counter the surge in criminal activities.

He pointed out that violent crimes have significantly tarnished Nigeria’s image, underscoring the ministry’s responsibility to manage and reshape the narrative about the country.

Highlighting the critical role of information management in the fight against insurgency, the Minister stressed the importance of collaboration between the Ministry and the Military.

He emphasized the need to forge a narrative that strengthens national security and improves the country’s image.

Idris announced that the ministry would soon launch a campaign for national rebirth, a deliberate effort to instill a renewed sense of patriotism among the citizens.

“Some of those things that we are talking about will take centre stage early next year when the President, hopefully, will lead the campaign of national rebirth. We want to talk about this concept of citizenship again,” he said.

The Minister requested the military to reintroduce the program of embedding journalists in military operations, aiming to provide firsthand insight into the theater of operations and foster a more informed and balanced narrative.

During the visit, CDS General Musa stated that their interaction with the Minister is part of non-kinetic operations, aimed at building synergy between the military and the media. He emphasised the people-centric nature of asymmetric warfare, where both the military and criminals vie for the hearts and minds of Nigerians.

General Musa called for public support in the fight against insurgency, terrorism, and banditry, highlighting that it is a collective endeavor for all Nigerians to defeat criminal elements challenging the country’s sovereignty.

In the war against terror, General Musa emphasized the significance of strategic communication, noting that many terrorists were influenced through advocacy to lay down their arms. Approximately 140,000 terrorists have voluntarily surrendered to the military as a result.