The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Monday launched the “My Nigeria, My Responsibility” campaign at the State House, Abuja, calling on citizens to take ownership of the country’s progress through responsible conduct, tax compliance and truthful public engagement.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Idris said the campaign was designed to “reignite patriotism through responsible citizenship and leadership,” stressing that Nigeria’s future depended not only on political leaders but on the everyday choices of over 200 million people.
The minister said: “Patriotism is not a spectator sport. It is the decision we make every day to shape our nation’s story. The destiny of Nigeria is not held by a few in Abuja but by every citizen in their daily actions.”
Idris praised whom he described as a leader who has “for decades personified patriotic commitment to democracy,” citing his long involvement in pro-democracy struggles and governance.
Highlighting major policy decisions of the administration, the minister said President Tinubu’s reforms — particularly in fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange management — were necessary to stop the economy from collapsing.
He added that ending the wasteful subsidy regime had strengthened the finances of states and local governments.
Idris also highlighted the government’s tax reform agenda, saying Nigeria could not rely on borrowing to build its future. He noted that only about 11 per cent of eligible Nigerians previously paid taxes.
According to him, the work of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms is already yielding results.
The minister explained that savings from reforms were being invested in critical infrastructure such as the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, modernised rail lines, upgraded ports, and expanded agricultural and solid minerals programmes.
On security and human capital, Idris said government was upgrading security architecture and supporting Nigerians through initiatives such as the student loan fund and vocational training programmes.
Idris said the campaign serves as “a mirror” for every Nigerian, urging citizens to embrace fiscal responsibility, promote truth in public discourse, and live by national values.
“Your taxes are your investment in the school your child attends, the road your business uses, and the security that protects you,” he said.
He warned against misinformation, calling on Nigerians to “be ambassadors of truth” in the digital age.
The minister announced that the government will launch the National Media and Information Literacy Institute in February to help citizens identify falsehoods and engage responsibly online.