Federal Government Launches “My Nigeria, My Character” Campaign

The Federal Government has launched a new national campaign to encourage Nigerians to demonstrate patriotism by displaying good character, integrity, and engaging in activities that contribute to the country’s development on a daily basis.

The Minister of Information and Publicity, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, launched the programme, themed “My Nigeria, My Character”, on Monday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The campaign, spearheaded by the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, aims to revive the spirit of patriotism towards the country, emphasizing that everyone has a role to play in building Nigeria’s reputation, development, and democratic process.

Speaking on behalf of the President, the Minister described patriotism as an “active verb”, saying it is expressed through good conduct, paying taxes, avoiding spreading false news, and being committed to the development of the country.

“True patriotism is the choice one makes every day to express good conduct, the story of our country, its development, and its dignity,” he said. 

He added, “The future of Nigeria is not in the hands of a few, it is in the hands of 200 million citizens.”

Idris also stressed the support that President Tinubu has given to the defense of democracy over the years, saying that his political life reflects the spirit of good conduct that the campaign seeks to spread across the country.

He attributed the government’s major reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies, reform of the exchange rate regime, fair taxation system, and digital revenue collection to the goal of inclusive growth.

“There is indeed hardship, but it is a hardship of recovery, not destruction,” he said. 

He explained that the revenue allocated to governments (FAAC) has more than doubled, giving states and local governments more room to improve health, education, security, and infrastructure.

While speaking about paying taxes, he said that it is directly linked to national development, saying: “Patriotism is in the taxes you pay. When you pay your taxes, you are directly investing in the school your child goes to, the road your business uses, and the security that protects your home.”

The minister also announced that the National Media Literacy (MIL) Institute would be launched in February 2026, to promote good communication and combat the spread of fake news.

He said: “Let us not use lies as a weapon. In this digital age, honest communication is an act of patriotism.”

Idris called on citizens to embrace the principles enshrined in the New Citizenship Charter, which includes honesty, patriotism, diligence, tolerance, and good work, and to consider the campaign as a commitment to unity in nation-building.

He concluded: “The President is laying the foundation of equality and vision. Let us join hands and build a better Nigeria through our values, our taxes, our stories, and our actions. My Nigeria, My Values.”