By Abbanobi -Eku Onyeka
Abuja
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to enhance transparency, effective communication, and public engagement on issues of internal security and citizenship integrity. This was stated during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the NUJ to the Ministry in Abuja.
The Minister described the Ministry of Interior as “the Ministry of the people”, noting that its core mandate directly impacts every Nigerian. He emphasized the indispensable role of the media in democratic governance, stressing that government institutions cannot operate in isolation.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo welcomed the proposal for structured engagements, including regular press briefings and periodic interface sessions, stating that consistent communication would enable citizens to better understand reforms and innovations being implemented within the Ministry. He commended the media for its balanced coverage of the Ministry’s activities, acknowledging that constructive criticism plays a vital role in institutional improvement.
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Alhassan Yahaya, stated that the visit was aimed at fostering stronger institutional ties and exploring areas of collaboration. The NUJ leadership commended the Ministry’s reform initiatives in internal security and expressed its commitment to partnering with relevant agencies to promote national security awareness.
The Union proposed quarterly ministerial press briefings to provide Nigerians with direct updates on the Ministry’s activities and reforms. It also extended an invitation to the Minister to address its forthcoming National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to institutional collaboration in the service of the Nigerian people, with both parties agreeing that sustained dialogue and structured engagement are essential to strengthening public confidence, promoting national cohesion, and ensuring that citizens remain well-informed about matters affecting internal security and governance.
