The Federal Government has launched a nationwide citizenship movement aimed at turning patriotism into practical actions that support nation-building. The initiative, called My Nigeria, My Responsibility, was officially introduced at the State House in Abuja by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, FNIPR, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
The Presidency, through the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, is driving the campaign to revive responsible citizenship and remind Nigerians that everyone has a direct role in influencing the country’s prosperity, global image, and democratic future. Speaking for the President, the Minister described patriotism as “an active verb”, stating that it involves values, honesty in public discussions, tax responsibility, and a commitment to national development.
“True patriotism is the daily choice to be responsible for our nation’s story, its progress, and its image,” he said. He added that “Nigeria’s destiny does not rest in the hands of a few, but in the actions of 200 million citizens.”
The Minister noted President Tinubu’s long defence of democracy, saying his political journey reflects the responsible citizenship the campaign seeks to promote. He linked the administration’s major reforms, including fuel subsidy removal, foreign exchange changes, tax justice efforts, and digital revenue systems, to the idea of citizen responsibility and shared growth.
“The pain is real, but it is the pain of healing, not decay,” he stated while explaining that reforms have more than doubled monthly FAAC allocations to states and local governments. According to him, these funds now give governments more capacity to address education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security needs.
He emphasized tax payment as part of civic duty and national progress. “Patriotism is in the taxes you pay. When you pay your fair share, you are directly investing in the school your child attends, the road your business uses, and the security that guards your home,” he explained.
Idris also announced that the Ministry will launch the National Media and Information Literacy Institute in February 2026. The institution is expected to equip citizens with critical skills to verify information, resist misinformation, and behave responsibly online. “We must not weaponize falsehood. In this digital age, truthful communication is a patriotic duty,” he warned.
He encouraged Nigerians to uphold the principles outlined in the newly adopted Citizens’ Charter of National Values, which promotes integrity, patriotism, diligence, tolerance, and excellence. The Minister urged all citizens to accept the campaign as a national commitment to building a responsible society.
“The President is providing the canvas of stability and vision; the rest of us must pick up the brush. Let us paint together the masterpiece of a new Nigeria, through our values, our taxes, our stories, and our actions. My Nigeria, My Responsibility,” he concluded.
