UNESCO, MAIN Partner to Combat Misinformation and Hate Speech in Southern Nigeria
Uyo, Akwa Ibom State – In a concerted effort to combat the rising tide of misinformation, disinformation, fake news, and hate speech, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the Media Awareness and Information for All Network (MAIN) recently concluded a two-day training workshop for media executives and content creators in southern Nigeria. The workshop, held in Uyo on June 4th and 5th, 2025, focused on integrating Media and Information Literacy (MIL) into editorial policies, equipping media professionals with the essential skills to navigate the increasingly complex information landscape.
The event attracted key figures from the Nigerian media landscape, including Aniekan Umanah, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information; Henry Asagba, Director of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Uyo zone; and Yemisi Bamgbose, Executive Secretary of the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON). Their presence underscored the importance of the workshop’s objectives in addressing the critical challenges facing the media industry. Commissioner Umanah stressed the potential of misinformation and hate speech to incite conflict and disrupt public peace, emphasizing the crucial role of editors and gatekeepers in verifying information sources before dissemination. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting ethical journalism and media development.
Yachat Nuhu, representing the Head of UNESCO Abuja Office, Albert Mendy, highlighted the transformative impact of digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the media and communication landscape. While acknowledging the innovative opportunities AI presents for news production and audience engagement, she underscored UNESCO’s commitment to a human-centered and ethical approach to AI, aligned with human rights, transparency, and accountability. Ms. Nuhu reiterated UNESCO’s ongoing efforts in Nigeria to advance MIL, emphasizing the vital role of media professionals not only as information conveyors but also as guardians of truth, champions of democratic values, and pillars of civic education. The workshop, she noted, serves as a strategic intervention to equip media professionals with the critical thinking skills and ethical grounding necessary to navigate the complex information environment responsibly.
Professor Charles Obot, representing MAIN Chairman Professor Jide Jimoh, emphasized the pervasive threat of misinformation, disinformation, mal-information, fake news, and hate speech. He highlighted the urgency of addressing these issues and commended the partnership between MAIN and UNESCO in organizing the training workshop as a crucial step towards stemming the tide of harmful communication. Professor Obot stressed the importance of raising awareness and equipping media professionals with the necessary skills to counter these threats without compromising societal well-being.
The workshop’s practical focus on integrating MIL competencies into news production and dissemination resonated with participants. Asagba of the NBC urged media organizations to adhere to MIL competencies and uphold the principles of truth and fairness, emphasizing that this would enhance public trust and confidence in the media. Bamgbose of BON echoed this sentiment, noting the timeliness of the workshop in addressing the prevalence of biased information and disinformation. He urged media executives to prioritize public interest and media ethics above all other considerations.
The training program covered various aspects of MIL, including identifying credible sources, verifying information, understanding the ethical implications of news reporting, and combating hate speech. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, case studies, and practical exercises designed to enhance their skills and knowledge. The workshop provided a platform for media professionals to share experiences and best practices, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges of misinformation and promoting responsible journalism. The UNESCO and MAIN partnership reflects a broader commitment to strengthening media literacy and fostering a more informed and resilient society. By empowering media professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge, the initiative aims to create a media landscape that upholds truth, accuracy, and ethical principles.
The collaborative efforts of UNESCO and MAIN in organizing this workshop demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing media literacy and combating misinformation in Nigeria. By empowering media professionals with the essential skills and ethical framework, the initiative aims to create a more responsible and informed media landscape, contributing to a stronger and more resilient society. The workshop’s emphasis on integrating MIL into editorial policies signals a significant step towards fostering a media environment that prioritizes truth, accuracy, and ethical practices.