Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, highlighted the role of digital literacy in combating misinformation and promoting responsible media consumption.
Speaking on Friday at the National Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2024 event in Abuja, Mr Idris underscored the need to empower citizens with the requisite digital tools to tackle the spread and consumption of false news.
The event, organised by the International Media and Information Literacy Institute at the National Open University of Nigeria, was themed “New Digital Frontiers of Information: Media and Information Literacy for Public Interest Information,” in collaboration with the National Commission for UNESCO and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation.
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The impact of social media and AI on information dissemination
Idris emphasised how the digital age has had a profound impact, expanding access to information through the use of social media, generative AI, and online content creation.
But he cautioned that this new digital environment also makes it easier for false information to spread.
“The rise of social media, generative Artificial Intelligence, online platforms and the new generation of digital content creators has democratised information flow, allowing voices from all corners of society to be heard,” the minister explained. “Anyone with a laptop or an Android phone has become a potential news creator, capable of reaching a large number of people.”
“However, this digital landscape with its limitless opportunities also poses serious challenges, especially with the spread of misinformation and disinformation, whether created by humans or generated by AI,” he noted.
Urgent call to action against misinformation
The minister urged the implementation of national media literacy programs to help people identify reliable sources and evaluate information critically.
“Therefore, it has become crucial that we empower our citizens with the tools they need to navigate this complex information environment, especially with the advent of Artificial Intelligence which will make it more complex,” the minister remarked. “Media and Information Literacy becomes essential in empowering individuals to critically assess the information they encounter, discern credible sources, and engage responsibly with media content.”
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Establishment of a media literacy institute in Nigeria
As part of ongoing efforts to promote digital literacy, Nigeria has established a UNESCO-certified International Media and Information Literacy Institute, fulfilling a commitment made during the Global Media and Information Literacy Week Conference in 2022.
The proposed institute aims to educate Nigerians and global citizens on digital communication and safe media practices.
Highlighting the significance of ethical standards in public interest information, the minister urged media professionals, educators, young people, and content creators to embrace responsible media practices.
He urged everyone involved to create an atmosphere that supports accurate, open, and accountable participation.