Nigeria has expressed its readiness to host the UNESCO Category 2 International Media and Information Literacy Institute, reaffirming its commitment to promoting global media literacy.
Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, made this known during a meeting in Abuja with UNESCO feasibility team led by Nelson Papi Kolliesiah.
The team is in Nigeria to evaluate the National Open University of Nigeria’s NOUN facilities for the institute’s establishment.
The Minister assured the UNESCO team that Nigeria possesses the necessary infrastructure and resources, with full support from President Bola Tinubu, to meet UNESCO’s requirements for the institute’s approval.
He said; “The International Media and Information Literacy Institute is not just for Nigerians but for the global community. This is an opportunity for our country to demonstrate its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to media and information literacy on a global scale. In this era of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation, media literacy is a key driver for achieving an independent and informed society.”
The Minister further disclosed that President Tinubu has approved all necessary funding and resources for the institute,
He said; “The Ministry, in collaboration with the Minister of Education, NOUN, and other stakeholders, is fully prepared to ensure the institute’s successful establishment.
“Nigeria is ready to join the global community in advancing democracy through collaboration and engagement. We are committed to playing by international standards and contributing to global progress and development.”
Idris emphasised that the institute’s establishment underscores Nigeria’s dedication to addressing the global challenges of misinformation and disinformation.
He called on the international community to unite in combating these threats to societal stability.
“Fake news, misinformation, and disinformation are global problems that can ruin societies, destroy nations, and disrupt relationships. Combatting this menace requires collective action from all nations. Fake news is more dangerous than a weapon; it spreads faster than a fighter jet and knows no borders. The global community must join hands to fight it,” he stressed.
Idris also noted that efforts to tackle fake news in Nigeria are sometimes misinterpreted as attacks on press freedom. However, the current administration prioritizes press freedom and freedom of expression.
“The President, being a beneficiary of press freedom, will not stifle it in any way. He has directed us to ensure that the press in Nigeria becomes even freer. Obstacles hindering the press from discharging its responsibilities are being gradually removed. Nigeria is aligning with UNESCO guidelines to address misinformation, disinformation, and fake news,” the Minister explained.
Earlier, UNESCO delegation leader Nelson Papi Kolliesiah outlined the purpose of their visit, emphasizing the need to align the institute’s objectives with Nigeria’s national priorities.
Kolliesiah said; “Our mission is to verify that the proposals match the reality on the ground. The feedback from stakeholders has been positive, and we are engaging with the Ministry to ensure the institute’s objectives align with Nigeria’s priorities.”
He also acknowledged the support Nigeria has received from seven sister nations and the interest of about 20 other countries in supporting the initiative.
With the backing of the global community and the commitment of the Nigerian government, the establishment of the UNESCO Category 2 International Media and Information Literacy Institute in Nigeria is poised to set a benchmark for media literacy and the fight against misinformation worldwide.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
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