Uyo, Akwa Ibom State – The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and Media Awareness and Information for All Network (MAIN) recently concluded a training workshop for media chief executives and content creators on integrating Media and Information Literacy (MIL) into editorial policy.
The two-day workshop, held on June 4-5, 2025, in Uyo, was opened by the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, and closed by the Director of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) Uyo zone, Mr. Henry Asagba.
Emphasizing the Importance of MIL
The Commissioner stressed the need for editors and gatekeepers to verify information sources to prevent the spread of misinformation and hate speech. “When misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech are disseminated through media, it poses a threat to public peace,” he said.
Harnessing AI for Responsible Media
The Head of UNESCO Abuja Office, Mr. Albert Mendy, represented by Ms. Yachat Nuhu, highlighted the impact of digital technologies and artificial intelligence on the media landscape. “UNESCO advocates for a human-centered and ethical approach to AI, aligned with human rights, transparency, and accountability,” she emphasized.
Guarding Truth and Democracy
Ms. Nuhu added, “Media professionals are guardians of truth, champions of democratic values, and pillars of civic education. This training workshop is a strategic intervention aimed at equipping media professionals with critical thinking skills, ethical grounding, and practical tools.”
Combating Misinformation
The Chairman of MAIN, Professor Jide Jimoh, represented by Professor Charles Obot, noted, “The need for action becomes obvious in the face of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech. This training is part of our efforts to stem the tide and provide required skills.”
Call to Action
The Director of NBC Uyo Zone, Mr. Henry Asagba, urged media organizations to adopt MIL competencies in news production and dissemination. “I call on media organisations to adhere to the competencies of MIL and principles of truth and fairness,” he said.
The Executive Secretary of the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON), Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, emphasized the importance of prioritizing public interest and media ethics. “This workshop is apt in ending the era of biased, misinformation, and disinformation,” he added.
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