By Abuja, Nigeria
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed his Ministry’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to enhance transparency, effective communication, and public engagement on internal security and citizenship matters.
Tunji-Ojo gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by the (NUJ) leadership to the Ministry in Abuja, where he described the Interior Ministry as “the Ministry of the people,” noting that its responsibilities cut across citizenship integrity, internal security, border management, and protection of national assets which directly affect every Nigerian.
He emphasized the indispensable role of the media in democratic governance, stressing that government institutions cannot operate in isolation. According to him, proactive information dissemination is critical to shaping public perception and strengthening trust in public institutions.
“Where facts are not made available, assumptions take their place,” the Minister said, underscoring the need for consistent and accurate communication.
While commending journalists for balanced reportage of the Ministry’s activities, he acknowledged that constructive criticism remains vital to institutional growth. Responsible journalism, he said, contributes to policy refinement, strengthens governance processes, and promotes informed public discourse.
Earlier, the (NUJ) National President, Alhassan Yahaya, accompanied by members of the Union’s National Executive Council and FCT Council, said the visit was aimed at strengthening institutional ties and exploring areas of collaboration.
Yahaya commended the Ministry’s reform initiatives in the area of internal security and expressed the Union’s readiness to partner with relevant agencies to promote national security awareness.
