Stakeholders across government and the media industry have thrown their support behind the launch of the Ibadan Pilot Media and Information Literacy (MIL) City Project, describing it as a critical step toward addressing the growing threat of misinformation.
The initiative, backed by the National Orientation Agency and media organisations, is designed to equip citizens and media practitioners with essential skills in critical thinking, digital literacy, and fact-checking.
Speaking at the launch, CAEPOCOM Africa Coordinator, Sharon Adetutu Omotoso, who delivered the opening address on behalf of UNESCO Abuja, described the project as a major intervention in strengthening information integrity in Nigeria’s evolving media space.
According to her, the programme will empower citizens to navigate today’s complex information ecosystem, where misinformation and disinformation continue to erode public trust.
Participants at the event emphasised the urgency of reinforcing the media landscape with the tools required to promote responsible journalism, restore credibility, and enhance public confidence in information dissemination. The UNESCO Media and Information Literacy programme, they noted, is anchored on critical thinking, inclusiveness, and the promotion of accurate information sharing.
The choice of Ibadan as the pilot city was widely applauded, with organisers citing its diverse population and expanding digital footprint as key considerations.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Lekan Alabi highlighted the city’s historic role in African broadcasting, recalling its status as the home of Western Nigeria Television. He stressed that responsible journalism remains a powerful antidote to fake news, hate speech, and narratives capable of inciting unrest.
As part of the rollout, a multi-stakeholder committee comprising representatives from government agencies, security institutions, media organisations, and civil society groups was inaugurated to drive the implementation of the project.
In her goodwill message, Oyo State Director of the NOA, Ajolayo Sinmiat Akande, represented by the agency’s Head of Media and Communications, Isiaka Kehinde, underscored the importance of promoting a value-driven society rooted in credible and verified information.
She noted that the project aligns with ongoing reforms led by the agency’s Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, particularly in advancing fact-checking mechanisms and ensuring authenticity in public communication.
Also in attendance were top government officials, including representatives of the Oyo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters led by Ademola Ojo, and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism headed by Wasiu Olatubosun.
