EU-ECOWAS selects DNN FactCheck for election integrity support

DNN FactCheck, a verification platform operated by the Development News Network and Media Foundation, has been selected to receive significant technical and technological support under a European Union-backed initiative. The program aims to bolster election fact-checking efforts and counter the spread of disinformation across Nigeria.

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We appreciate being selected for this support, which will enable us to effectively counter worrisome cases of disinformation, election violence and other related issues.

DNN FactCheck, alongside BONews, was chosen after a rigorous assessment of fact-checking organizations nationwide. The selection criteria focused on institutional capacity, governance standards, commitment to evidence-based journalism, and readiness to adopt technology-driven verification methods. The EU support, provided under the European Union Support to ECOWAS in Peace, Security and Governance Project, will include crucial technical assistance, capacity building, and technology upgrades.

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As elections continue to evolve in the digital age, strengthening our technological and editorial capacity is essential to ensuring that citizens have access to accurate, verified and trustworthy information.

The organization will gain access to advanced verification tools designed to strengthen newsroom operations and improve responses to election-related misinformation. The intervention will also enhance DNN FactCheck's digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, website performance, and accessibility. Specialized training in artificial intelligence, open-source intelligence, digital investigations, and deepfake detection will further bolster their capabilities.

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The world today has become complex, especially during election periods when misinformation and disinformation can undermine public confidence and democratic participation.

As part of the program, DNN FactCheck will join a regional verification network, promoting cross-border collaboration and information sharing among fact-checking organizations throughout West Africa. Lakan Otufodunrin, Chairman of DNN’s Editorial Board, called the selection a milestone, stating it will enable them to effectively counter disinformation and election-related issues. He emphasized the necessity of strengthening technological and editorial capacity in the digital age to ensure citizens receive accurate information.

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This support will strengthen our technical capacity, expand our investigative capabilities, and enable us to deliver faster, accurate, and evidence-based fact-checks that serve the public interest.