The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is set to become a global hub for media integrity as it prepares to host the BBC World Service’s “Trust is Earned” forum on September 3, 2026. This comprehensive, day-long event is designed to tackle the pervasive global crisis of disinformation, bringing together a diverse assembly of journalists, educators, technology experts, and content creators. By fostering a collaborative environment, the forum aims to dissect the mechanics of how misinformation spreads, examine the BBC’s sophisticated methods for deconstructing falsehoods, and address the rapidly evolving role of Artificial Intelligence in generating deceptive content.
A centerpiece of the forum will be a special live recording of the popular BBC World Questions program, chaired by seasoned journalist Jonny Dymond. This high-profile session will feature a panel of influential voices, including business leaders, activists, media personalities, and journalists, who will engage directly with the audience. The discussion is expected to be a rigorous debate concerning the state of trust in contemporary politics, the impact of fake news on society, and the specific challenges posed by the upcoming Nigerian elections, providing a platform for critical discourse in the heart of West Africa.
Beyond the panel discussions, the event will offer attendees an immersive look at modern investigative techniques. A highlight of the schedule is the exclusive preview of the latest documentary from the award-winning BBC Eye investigations team, showcasing real-world examples of how journalism serves as a guardian of truth. Furthermore, the forum will facilitate interactive workshops where participants can learn how the BBC utilizes open-source intelligence (OSINT) to verify facts and verify imagery, alongside practical sessions on how individuals can better identify and navigate the complex digital information landscape.
The “Trust is Earned” initiative underscores the BBC World Service’s unwavering commitment to media literacy and the defense of democratic discourse. In an era where information is weaponized to confuse and manipulate, the BBC seeks to position itself not only as a primary source of reliable, vetted news but also as a catalyst for audience empowerment. By teaching the public how to critically assess the information they encounter in their daily lives, the organization hopes to build a more resilient society capable of resisting the influence of propaganda.
Fiona Crack, the Interim Global Director of BBC News, emphasized the urgency of the mission, stating that disinformation currently represents the most significant challenge facing modern journalism. According to Crack, the danger lies in the ability of false narratives to conflate facts and, in extreme cases, ignite social conflict. She noted that the forum is designed to provide attendees with the critical tools necessary to combat these threats, while simultaneously highlighting the professional skills and rigorous methodologies that BBC teams employ to hold power to account and expose digital deceit.
The Lagos event represents the second iteration of this global forum in 2026, following an inaugural session scheduled to take place in São Paulo this August. By taking “Trust is Earned” to key international cities, the BBC is creating a global network of dialogue aimed at safeguarding the integrity of information. For the University of Lagos and its academic community, the forum offers an invaluable opportunity to engage with international media experts and contribute to the vital work of maintaining a truthful, informed public sphere in an increasingly digital world.