Nigeria Marks Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2024 with a Focus on Digital Literacy at NOUN

Nigeria joined the global community in celebrating the National Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week 2024, hosted by the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Abuja.

Themed “New Digital Frontiers of Information: Media and Information Literacy for Public Interest Information,” the event was organized in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, UNESCO Abuja Office, and NATCOM UNESCO.

Speaking at the event, Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, emphasized the critical role of media and information literacy in combating misinformation in today’s rapidly evolving digital environment. “As we embrace the digital revolution, we must acknowledge its transformative impact on how information is created, shared, and consumed,” the Minister noted. He highlighted that the rise of social media and artificial intelligence has democratized information, enabling everyone to potentially be a news creator.

The event underscored the need for citizens to be equipped with digital literacy skills to discern credible information. The Honourable Minister announced the upcoming UNESCO assessment for establishing Nigeria’s first UNESCO International Media and Information Literacy Institute, a project that aims to provide comprehensive training and resources to enhance digital literacy across Africa.

In alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Ministry’s goal is to create an inclusive information environment, accessible to all Nigerians regardless of socio-economic status. The Minister highlighted that integrating MIL into educational systems will be essential to achieve a digitally literate society capable of making informed decisions.

With a call to action for media professionals, educators, community leaders, and influencers, Alhaji Idris stressed the need for responsible information sharing and reporting. He urged content creators and social media influencers to uphold high ethical standards and prioritize the nation’s interests.

As Nigeria inches closer to inaugurating its first UNESCO-category MIL Institute, the Minister expressed optimism about the future of media and information literacy in the country. “Together, we will navigate these new digital frontiers and build a society that values truth, transparency, and informed engagement,” he concluded.

National Global MIL Week 2024 serves as a reminder of Nigeria's commitment to fostering a media-literate society amid the challenges and opportunities presented by digital innovation.