By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.

Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, on Monday delivered a powerful message of unity, resilience, and national rebirth as he led the launch of ActionAid Nigeria’s 25th Anniversary Legacy Book and unveiled the organization’s new building prototype at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

The event—attended by global ActionAid executives, former country directors, civil society leaders, development partners, and political figures—celebrated a quarter-century of humanitarian service, social justice advocac,y and grassroots transformation by ActionAid in Nigeria.

Malagi, in a moment of lighthearted banter, began his remarks by teasing ActionAid’s General Secretary, recalling a backstage exchange:
“He flew thousands of kilometers to speak for two minutes… and still only took five,” the minister joked, drawing laughter across the hall.

He also noted that he had hoped Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, would still be present. “We agreed earlier that I would have the right of reply,” Malagi quipped. “He said today is a free day—no controversies.”

Celebrating 25 Years of Impact

The minister hailed ActionAid Nigeria for “25 years of advocacy, compassion, community service and transformative work,” crediting the organization with empowering women, strengthening education, advancing healthcare, improving governance, and protecting vulnerable populations during humanitarian crises.

Launching the anniversary legacy book and unveiling the building prototype, Malagi described the projects as symbols of ActionAid’s institutional growth and long-term commitment to Nigeria.

“This publication captures your institutional memory and the stories of many lives touched,” he said. “Your grassroots empowerment has shaped policy and community development in profound and measurable ways.”

A Warning Against Dangerous Narratives

In a striking shift, the minister addressed what he called a “disturbing narrative” portraying Nigeria as a violator of religious freedom—especially in foreign circles.

“That characterization is not accurate. It is not helpful. It is harmful,” Malagi declared.
“Our common enemies are not our brothers and sisters. Our enemies are terrorists, criminals and bandits who want to pit Muslims and Christians against each other.”

He urged civil society actors—especially ActionAid—to help correct misleading portrayals of Nigeria, noting that such narratives embolden violent groups aiming to destabilize the nation.

Malagi reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to protecting citizens, announcing that the President has declared a national security emergency, authorizing:

Recruitment of additional personnel into the armed forces and police

Strengthening of state-level security outfits

Acceleration of legislation to establish state police

He also highlighted the new Ministry of Livestock Development, which will partner with states to implement cattle ranching, ending open grazing and reducing farmer–herder conflicts.

“This is a turning point in our war against terror and a consequential step in strengthening our last-mile security assets,” he said.

Malagi called on civil society groups to deepen their work in promoting open governance, media freedom, digital literacy and community-led development.

“The work of ActionAid has been complementary, invaluable and essential,” he said. “We stand ready to support your efforts.”

As the ceremony transitioned to the unveiling of the building prototype, the minister concluded with a tribute:

“Twenty-five years is not a small journey. It is a journey of courage, compassion and unwavering service to our nation. May this milestone inspire even greater achievements in the decades ahead.”

“God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”