Nigeria Calls for Global Collaboration to Combat Disinformation and Misinformation
Abuja, Nigeria – In a resounding call for international cooperation, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, emphasized the urgent need for a united front against the rising tide of disinformation and misinformation. Speaking at the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) Diplomatic/Security International Conference 2025 in Abuja, Tuggar highlighted the detrimental impact of these malicious narratives on global peace and security. The conference, themed “Nigeria’s 4Ds Foreign Policy Strategy in an Era of Global Insecurity, Strategic Misperceptions, and Disinformation: Advancing Diplomacy, Leveraging Intelligence, and Engaging the Media for National and Global Stability,” brought together key stakeholders to address the complex challenges posed by disinformation in the contemporary world.
Tuggar, represented by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, stressed that disinformation, often weaponized by both state and non-state actors, poses a significant threat to international relations and domestic stability. He pointed to the manipulative tactics employed in conflict zones, false reporting on democratic processes, and the deliberate distortion of information surrounding military operations as prime examples of the dangers posed by disinformation. The minister underscored the importance of a multi-pronged approach to combatting this menace, emphasizing the crucial roles of diplomacy, intelligence, and the media in fostering peace and security.
The minister advocated for strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts by equipping diplomats with the tools and resources necessary to counter misinformation with factual narratives and build stronger alliances. He also called for enhanced coordination between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and intelligence agencies to proactively anticipate and address security threats. Recognizing the pervasive influence of both traditional and digital media in shaping public perception, Tuggar stressed the importance of a proactive public diplomacy strategy that projects Nigeria’s values, vision, and voice on the international stage. This, he argued, requires a shift from reactive communication to a more strategic approach that effectively counters hostile narratives and promotes accurate information.
Tuggar’s call for international collaboration extended to several key areas. He emphasized the need for greater cooperation in tackling disinformation campaigns, support for capacity building in digital diplomacy for developing nations, more inclusive multilateral frameworks that acknowledge demographic diversity, and a renewed commitment to Africa’s peace architecture, where Nigeria plays a leading role through ECOWAS and the African Union. The minister expressed Nigeria’s readiness to partner with all nations committed to upholding these ideals and working towards a more stable and secure global environment.
The DICAN conference, chaired by Mr. Idehai Frederick, underscored the vital role of journalists in navigating the complex landscape of information dissemination. Ambassador Bolaji Akinyemi, Director of Foreign Service Reforms and Innovation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urged DICAN members to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, emphasizing the importance of verification, national interest, and patriotism in their reporting. Other speakers at the conference echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of responsible journalism in combating disinformation and promoting accurate, unbiased reporting.
Representatives from various sectors, including the military, legislature, and diaspora commission, also contributed to the discussion. A. Haruna, representing the Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized the link between a well-informed citizenry and national security. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, former Minority Leader, stressed the timeliness of the conference theme, given the current security and economic challenges facing Nigeria. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Balogun of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission urged DICAN to collaborate with NIDCOM in educating Nigerians abroad on the commission’s mandate. Representatives from the police force and the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria also stressed the importance of responsible information management and ethical conduct. The conference culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing prominent Nigerians for their contributions to various fields. The event served as a crucial platform for dialogue and collaboration, underscoring the collective responsibility of governments, media organizations, and citizens in combating disinformation and promoting a more informed and secure world.
