Interior Minister Tunji-Ojo reaffirms collaboration with NUJ to enhance transparency

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), aiming to enhance transparency, effective communication, and public engagement on internal security and citizenship integrity.

The Minister made the remarks during a courtesy visit by the NUJ leadership to the Ministry in Abuja, where he described the Ministry of Interior as “the Ministry of the people.” He noted that its core mandate—including citizenship integrity, border management, internal security, and protection of national assets—directly impacts every Nigerian.

Emphasizing the critical role of the media in democratic governance, Tunji-Ojo stressed that government institutions cannot operate in isolation. “Where facts are not made available, assumptions take their place,” he said, highlighting the importance of proactive information dissemination in shaping public perception and building trust in government institutions.

He described the Ministry-media relationship as a strategic partnership anchored on accountability, transparency, and national interest. The Minister welcomed proposals for structured engagements, including regular press briefings and periodic interface sessions, noting that consistent communication would help citizens understand reforms and innovations being implemented within the Ministry.

While commending the media for balanced reporting, Tunji-Ojo acknowledged that constructive criticism is essential for institutional improvement, policy refinement, and informed public discourse.

Earlier, the NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahaya, accompanied by members of the National Executive Council and FCT Council, explained that the visit aimed to strengthen institutional ties and explore areas of collaboration. The NUJ leadership lauded the Ministry’s reform initiatives in internal security and pledged to work with relevant agencies to promote national security awareness.

The Union proposed quarterly ministerial press briefings and invited the Minister to address its forthcoming National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to further enlighten stakeholders on ongoing policies and achievements. Additionally, the NUJ sought collaboration on capacity development through its training institute, focusing on equipping journalists for responsible security reporting.

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

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