"Interior Minister, NUJ Strengthen Strategic Partnership to Boost Transparency and Public Engagement”

Interior Minister, NUJ Strengthen Strategic Partnership to Boost Transparency and Public Engagement”

Abuja, 25 February 2026 — The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to a strengthened collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to enhance transparency, effective communication, and public awareness on matters of internal security and citizenship integrity.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the NUJ leadership to the Ministry in Abuja, Minister Tunji-Ojo described the Ministry as “the Ministry of the people,” highlighting its core mandate—citizenship integrity, internal security, border management, and protection of national assets—as critical to every Nigerian.

The Minister emphasized the essential role of the media in democratic governance, noting: “Where facts are not made available, assumptions take their place.” He stressed that proactive information dissemination fosters public trust and strengthens institutional credibility.

Minister Tunji-Ojo described the relationship with the media as a strategic partnership anchored on accountability, transparency, and national interest. He welcomed proposals for structured engagements, including regular press briefings and periodic interface sessions, which will help citizens understand reforms and innovations within the Ministry.

While commending the media for balanced reporting, he acknowledged the importance of constructive criticism in refining policies and promoting informed public discourse.

The National President of the NUJ, Alhassan Yahaya, alongside members of the National Executive Council and FCT Council, noted that the visit aimed to foster stronger institutional ties and explore collaboration opportunities. The Union proposed quarterly ministerial press briefings and invited the Minister to address its upcoming National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, offering a platform to enlighten stakeholders on ongoing reforms.

The NUJ also expressed interest in collaboration through its training institute to enhance journalists’ understanding of security reporting, national interest considerations, and responsible information dissemination.

Both parties agreed that sustained dialogue and structured engagement are key to boosting public confidence, promoting national cohesion, and keeping citizens informed on internal security and governance matters.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to institutional collaboration in service of the Nigerian people.