The Minister of Information and National Orientation in Nigeria has introduced a detailed plan to combat misinformation and improve grassroots communication to enhance inclusive governance. During the 48th National Council of Information and National Orientation in Kaduna, the Minister emphasized the importance of providing accurate and accessible public information to the citizens.
A key focus of the Minister’s address was addressing the challenges posed by fake news, which he identified as a significant threat to governance and public trust. To address this issue, he announced the immediate establishment of the UNESCO Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja. This institute aims to equip Nigerians with the necessary skills to identify reliable information and resist the impact of misinformation.
The Minister highlighted the significance of media literacy in fostering critical thinking, especially in an era where fake news and biased reporting can influence public opinion. He urged Information Commissioners to utilize the institute to enhance the capacity of staff in combating fake news and misinformation effectively.
Additionally, the Minister emphasized the importance of grassroots communication by promoting the use of local languages, community radio stations, and town hall meetings to ensure government policies reach even the most remote areas. He acknowledged the efforts of Federal Information Centres in prioritizing community engagement and inclusivity.
Furthermore, the Minister called for the modernization of public information systems through the adoption of digital tools and artificial intelligence to improve the speed, accuracy, and reach of government communication. He underscored the need for public communication to evolve to meet the changing demands of the digital age.
In a plea to state governments, the Minister urged them to strengthen their Ministries of Information, which he deemed crucial in bridging the gap between government policies and citizens. This strategy is in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which emphasizes transparency, inclusivity, and people-centric governance.
The Minister expressed optimism that these initiatives would elevate public information management as a fundamental aspect of national development and democracy.