FG calls for stronger media literacy to combat misinformation

The Federal Government of Nigeria has underscored the escalating threat posed by misinformation and disinformation, calling for a robust enhancement of media literacy among its citizens. This initiative is framed as a crucial safeguard against the pervasive spread of false narratives in our increasingly digital world.

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In a world shaped by rapid technological change and the constant flow of information, the ability to think critically, verify facts, and engage responsibly is fundamental to the health of our societies and the strength of our democracies.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, highlighted that in an era defined by rapid technological advancements and an incessant flow of information, the capacity to critically assess content, verify facts, and engage responsibly is not merely beneficial but indispensable for the health of society and the robustness of democracy. The establishment of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute, inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu and recognized by UNESCO, positions Nigeria at the vanguard of global efforts to foster responsible communication and combat the erosion of trust in institutions.

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The establishment of the institute comes at a time when the world is grappling with misinformation, disinformation, and the erosion of trust in institutions.

From a Nigerian perspective, the urgency of this call is amplified by the potential for misinformation to destabilize social cohesion and undermine governance. The institute's creation is seen not just as an educational endeavor but as a strategic move to bolster national resilience against external and internal manipulation. While Western media might focus on the technological aspects of AI-driven disinformation, Nigeria's emphasis, as articulated by Minister Idris, is on empowering citizens with fundamental critical thinking skills. This approach recognizes that true resilience lies in an informed populace, capable of discerning truth from falsehood, thereby safeguarding democratic processes and fostering a more stable society. The government's commitment to supporting the institute through partnerships signifies a long-term vision for a media-literate citizenry.

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As a ministry, we remain fully committed to supporting the institute to achieve its mandate and deliver meaningful outcomes.