Nigeria’s ambition to host the UNESCO Category II Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Institute has gained significant international backing, with seven nations formally endorsing the bid and 20 others committing support. This development was announced by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a courtesy visit by a UNESCO delegation currently assessing Nigeria’s readiness to host the institute.
“We have the support of about seven sister nations and commitments from twenty others. We are confident that at the next sitting of the UNESCO Board, Nigeria will secure the final hosting right for the MIL Institute, which will be located within the premises of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Abuja,” Idris said.
Positive Feedback on Preparedness
The minister expressed satisfaction with the preliminary assessment from UNESCO’s inspection team, noting that Nigeria’s preparations align with the organization’s requirements. He highlighted that the initiative is not only a national priority but also a global one.
“Media and Information Literacy is a tool for the world, not just Nigeria. Hosting this institute provides a platform for us to showcase our expertise, professionalism, and global commitment to MIL,” Idris stated.
Government Support and Funding
With the full approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian government has allocated the necessary funding for the institute. The Ministry of Information is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders to ensure the project’s success.
The minister emphasized that MIL is critical in addressing global challenges like fake news and misinformation, which pose threats to peace and security.
“Fake news, misinformation, and disinformation are global problems. UNESCO has been at the forefront of combating these issues, and we recognize that Nigeria must play its part. The MIL Institute will contribute to building global capacity in tackling this challenge,” Idris said.
Balancing Press Freedom with Responsibility
Idris reassured stakeholders that efforts to combat fake news would not undermine press freedom, reiterating the government’s commitment to freedom of expression.
“For democracy to thrive, press freedom is essential. However, with freedom comes responsibility. Press freedom must respect the rights of others—it is about balance,” he explained.
UNESCO’s Assessment Mission
Mr. Nelson Papi Kolliesuah, Project Manager at Data-Pop Alliance—the firm independently conducting UNESCO’s verification—commended Nigeria’s preparations. He noted that their mission was to ensure that the institute aligns with global aspirations, Nigeria’s educational system, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“So far, we are satisfied with the structures and arrangements made by the Nigerian government for the institute’s take-off,” Kolliesuah remarked.
This milestone demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to leading global conversations on media literacy and combating misinformation. If approved, the MIL Institute will position the country as a hub for capacity building and innovation in media and information literacy, benefiting not only Nigeria but the world at large.
Rabiu Ibrahim
