FG Accuses Foreign Interests of Spreading Anti-Nigeria Propaganda

The Federal Government has accused unnamed foreign interests of orchestrating a sustained propaganda campaign aimed at portraying Nigeria as a country that persecutes its citizens based on religion.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the allegation on Monday while unveiling preparations for the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) Abuja 2026, themed “Responsible Communication: The Voice of the World.”

The forum, jointly hosted by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, will convene global leaders, scholars, and communication professionals to discuss ethical communication and information integrity.

Idris described allegations of a Christian genocide in Nigeria as false and malicious, insisting they were “single narratives designed to weaken the nation’s unity and tarnish its global image.”

He said, “We must recognize the existential reputational threats to our national brand, where external purveyors of untruths mischaracterize Nigeria as a place of religious persecution. For the umpteenth time, I affirm there is no iota of truth in the claim of a Christian genocide in Nigeria.”

The minister urged media and communication experts to counter such misinformation with facts and ethical reporting, stressing that Nigeria’s image must be protected through truth-driven communication.

He noted that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is positioning itself as Africa’s leading advocate for ethical and responsible communication, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Highlighting ongoing reforms such as the National Orientation Policy and the Open Government Communication Framework, Idris said the government is committed to using communication as a tool for transparency, accountability, and unity.

Also speaking, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, assured that his ministry would ensure a seamless experience for international delegates attending the forum. He revealed plans to establish Very, Very Important Personality (VVIP) departments at international airports to enhance protocol services.

NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku, commended the Federal Government for its support, describing the forum as an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s communication progress and service improvement. He also praised Idris for his leadership in strengthening the nation’s global communication credibility.

Similarly, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, pledged the support of traditional institutions for the event, emphasizing the role of communication in peacebuilding and national unity.

The World Public Relations Forum Abuja 2026 is expected to reinforce Nigeria’s position as Africa’s communication hub and a responsible voice in global narrative shaping.