The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has unveiled a comprehensive plan to checkmate fake news, biased reporting and misinformation perpetuated through yellow journalism by some media platforms.
The move which is geared towards enhancing impeccable grassroots communication is a part of efforts to strengthen inclusive governance in Nigeria.
While speaking at the 48th National Council of Information and National Orientation in Kaduna on Friday, the minister expressed the need for accurate, transparent and accessible public information.
In the address, Idris address emphasized the urgent need to checkmate the growing threats of fake news, which he described as a crucial challenge to governance and public trust.
In order to address the menace, the minister announced immediate operationalization of the UNESCO Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja.
The institute, which is the first of its kind globally, will equip Nigerians with tools to identify credible information and resist the influence of misinformation.
“In an era where fake news, propaganda, and biased reporting can significantly influence public opinion and decision-making, media literacy fosters critical thinking,” Idris said.
“It helps individuals analyse the intent behind media messages, understand the context in which they are presented and assess their accuracy and relevance,” he added.
“I therefore urge the commissioners for information to take advantage of this very important institute, once it takes off, to further build the capacity of our staff in combating the menace of fake news, misinformation and disinformation,” the minister stressed.
The minister who also stressed the importance of grassroots communication, advocatated for the use of local languages, community radio stations and town hall meetings to ensure government policies get to the most remote areas.
He also noted the efforts by the Federal Information Centres to prioritise community engagement and foster inclusivity.
“Information management must transcend urban centres to reach the remotest communities. Local languages, town hall meetings, and community radio stations should play pivotal roles in ensuring inclusivity.
“To this end and in recognition of the diverse nature of our country, the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, through the Federal Information Centres, has prioritised grassroots engagement through town hall meetings, community outreach programmes, and collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure that government policies resonate with citizens at all levels,” he stated.
The minister also urged modernisation of public information systems through adoption of digital tools and artificial intelligence.
According to him, this would enhance speed, accuracy and reach of government messaging. He stressed that public communication must evolve to meet the dynamic needs of the digital age.
The minister urged state governments to preserve and strengthen their ministries of information, which he described as critical to bridging the gap between government policies and citizens.
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