Minister urges stronger digital media literacy, responsible AI use

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called for stronger digital media literacy and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The minister noted that as digital platforms continue to shape public discourse and access to information, it has become imperative for government institutions, media organisations, and citizens alike to work collaboratively to ensure accuracy, transparency, and accountability in the digital space.

He spoke in Abuja on Friday while declaring open a symposium to mark the Global Media and Information Literacy Week, hosted by the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).

The event, organised under the auspices of UNESCO, brought together government officials, education leaders, development partners, academics, and students to deliberate on the theme, ‘Promoting AI Adoption and Gratification through Media and Information Literacy,’ which aligns with the global focus, ‘Minds Over AI.’

Represented by the Director of Public Communication and National Orientation at the ministry, Henshaw Ogubike, the minister further highlighted that a resilient digital ecosystem is central to Nigeria’s social and economic transformation.

He explained that by equipping citizens with the skills to think critically and use digital tools effectively, the country can unlock new opportunities for creativity, entrepreneurship, and civic participation.

Idris added that the ministry would continue to champion partnerships with both local and international stakeholders to promote media literacy, enhance access to reliable information, and build public trust in the digital age.

In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Olufemi Peters, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to promoting responsible use of digital technologies and advancing media and information literacy (MIL) across Africa.

Peters described the gathering as a vital platform to reflect on the challenges and opportunities posed by AI in modern communication, education, and governance.

He noted that while AI presents vast potential for innovation, it also raises complex ethical and social questions that demand responsible management.

“We must ask ourselves how we can ensure that these technologies serve humanity — and not destroy it,” he said. “How do we preserve human dignity in an age of automation, and how do we prepare citizens to distinguish truth from falsehood in a digital world?”

Highlighting NOUN’s leading role in advancing media and information literacy, Peters announced that the university was in the advanced stages of securing UNESCO Category Two status for the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI), hosted by NOUN — the first of its kind in Africa.

He said this milestone would not only consolidate Nigeria’s leadership in digital education but also position the country as a global hub for ethical AI and responsible information use.

“For us, this achievement is not just institutional — it is national,” he said. “It signals that Africa is ready to lead, ready to innovate, and ready to shape the global dialogue on digital inclusion and the future of learning.”

Also, a representative of UNESCO Abuja, Yachat Nuhu, emphasised the growing importance of digital media literacy in an age dominated by technological innovations such as AI and blogging.

The Acting Director, International Media and Information Literacy Institute, Abuja, Dr. Lateef Adelakun, also noted that while these tools have revolutionised communication, education, and business, their misuse for unwholesome purposes continue to pose serious challenges.

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