NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Nigeria moving in right direction under Tinubu – Presidency
General News

Nigeria moving in right direction under Tinubu – Presidency

336 total views today

By Salif Atojoko

The Presidency on Monday said the Nigerian economy was moving in the right direction under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy, said this in reaction to remarks by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, at its first plenary meeting of 2025 in Abuja at the weekend.

Onanuga said the conference, “gave an alarming prognosis of the state of the economy and the polity that sounded more like snippets from an outdated book.

“In his opening address, CBCN President Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru, listed youth unemployment, insecurity, poverty, corruption, and electoral fraud as some of the ills plaguing the country.

“He demanded quick action from leaders nationwide to stop the country from drifting.”

The Presidential aide said, in a statement, that Tinubu appreciated the constant interventions of the Catholic Bishops in matters of governance in the country.

“The Conference of Catholic Bishops’ patriotic fervour and commitment to national unity, peace, and stability are unassailable and deeply valued and respected by the government.

“While some of the governance challenges in the areas highlighted by the Bishops remain, it is important to state categorically that our country has made tremendous progress in all areas since Tinubu assumed office 22 months ago.

“In terms of insecurity, Nigeria is more secure today than it was in 2023, thanks to our military and other security agencies and the strong leadership provided by President Tinubu as the Commander-in-Chief,” he said.

According to him, in the last two years, over 8,000 criminals – bandits, armed robbers, Boko Haram terrorists, and kidnappers – have been eliminated, and over 10,000 Nigerians – primarily women and children have been rescued from their abductors.

“As a result of improved security in our communities, especially in the North-West and the North-East, farmers have returned to their farms, and our country has seen increased food production, which is currently driving down prices of essential commodities.

“Farmers in Kaduna, Kebbi and Jigawa are eloquent testimonies of the improved security ambience.

“Similarly, farmers growing cash crops in many parts of the country are experiencing a new life of boom and prosperity,” said Onanuga

On the economy, he said Tinubu’s administration had stabilised the economy from the precarious situation it inherited on assumption of office.

“Our balance of trade has improved, foreign reserves are in a stronger position, inflation has moderated, our currency is gaining strength against convertible currencies.

“Our local refining capacity has tremendously increased on the back of Dangote Refinery and NNPCL Refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri, going on stream.

“Realising the importance of youth to national development and economic growth, President Tinubu’s administration has designed programmes that will catalyse youth employment, enhance their capability, and harness their ingenuity, creativity, and talents for better productivity.

“These programmes, including 3MTT, NATEP, LEEP, IDiCE, NiYA, and the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund, were designed to create over 10 million new jobs for young people,” continued the Special Adviser.

He said that more than ever, the country had increased revenue collection and was mobilising more local revenue to fund critical development priorities.

“Under President Tinubu, Nigeria spends more on economic and social infrastructure such as roads, power, healthcare, education, and security.

“The unprecedented N54.9 trillion 2025 budget is designed to revitalise the economy and set it on a new growth trajectory.

“Local and international institutions have continued to praise the Tinubu administration’s implementation of necessary reforms,” Onanuga pointed out.

He added that last week, Chatham House, a United Kingdom International Affairs policy think tank, praised President Tinubu’s team’s economic management.

“In an article, Chatham House said Nigeria’s economy had been most competitive under President Tinubu in 25 years due to his reforms.

“While we agree that many Nigerians still face difficulties, we remain convinced that the government is making the right decisions to lead to a better and more prosperous country.

“President Tinubu and his team will continue to work very hard, on behalf of our compatriots, to deliver the promise of a greater and stronger Nigeria.

“The Tinubu administration is optimistic about the future and the ongoing positive changes,” he stated. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

China inaugurates 2025 economic roadmap, targets 5% GDP growth
Foreign

China inaugurates 2025 economic roadmap, targets 5% GDP growth

389 total views today

By Fortune Abang

The Government of China has inaugurated its 2025 economic Roadmap centred on bolstering five per cent GDP growth, innovation and investment.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the roadmap is centred on boosting consumption, innovation and technology, fiscal and monetary policy implementation, as well as market reform.

China’s Premier Li Qiang disclosed this during the virtual presentation of the Chinese government work report against the backdrop of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) in Beijing, China.

He stated that the focus of the roadmap was fiscal expansion, technological innovation, and foreign investment, outlining a comprehensive approach aimed at sustaining the country’s economic growth amid global uncertainties.

Li said, “A key feature of China’s 2025 economic strategy is an expanded fiscal policy with the deficit-to-GDP ratio set at four per cent, marking a notable increase from the previous year.

“To support economic stimulus, Chinese government plans to issue 1.3 trillion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds, up by 300 billion yuan from last year, along with 4.4 trillion yuan in local government special-purpose bonds.

“Such represents a 500 billion yuan increase over 2024 levels; this fiscal expansion is designed to boost domestic consumption.

“Of the ultra-long special treasury bonds, 300 billion yuan will be allocated to consumer goods trade-in programmes.”

Tian Xuan, Deputy to the 14th NPC and Associate Dean at PBC School of Finance, Tsinghua University, explained the significance of the initiative, saying expanding domestic demand is a priority among ten key tasks outlined in the report.

According to Tian, the dedicated 300 billion yuan for trade-in programmes will stimulate consumption, drive transformation and upgrade consumption patterns.

Chan Chun-ying, Hong Kong’s Deputy to the NPC and Advisor at Bank of China Hong Kong Ltd, expressed confidence in the economic target.

He added that China had consistently sustained medium-to-high-speed economic growth.

He restated that such is notable in China’s ability to maintain a five per cent growth rate and demonstrated confidence, which in turn boosted confidence.

“China is prioritising technological advancements in biomanufacturing, quantum-computing, embodied AI and 6G.

“The AI Plus initiative aims to integrate digital technologies with manufacturing strengths, supporting extensive application of large-scale AI models, development of next-generation intelligent terminals and smart manufacturing equipment.

“The emergence of deep-seek has demonstrated that we can achieve global AI capabilities, using cost-effective chips and faster processing speeds,” Chan said.

Erik Solheim, former UN Under-Secretary-General and former Executive-Director of the UN Environment Programme, described the roadmap as China’s commitment to stabilising foreign trade and advancing Belt and Road cooperation.

“China remains a significant force in the world economy with an expected economic growth of five per cent for 2025, China will continue to be the biggest source of global economic growth.

“Stability and innovation are key themes of this year’s two sessions; China is at the forefront of innovation, particularly in the two most important sectors, such as economy and environment,” Solheim said.

High points of the event were remarks by Patrick Nijs, co-founder of the EU-China Joint Innovation Centre and Bernardo Mendia, Board Advisor at the EU Young Entrepreneurs Association. (NAN) (nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Oluwafunke Ishola

Industrialist makes case for empowering women for leadership, STEM
General News

Industrialist makes case for empowering women for leadership, STEM

330 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe

An industrialist, Mrs Funlayo Bakare-Okeowo, has outlined key action plans to support women in leadership, business, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

Bakare-Okeowo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FAE Envelopes Ltd., have the outline at the Lagos Business School (LBS) 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) event on Saturday.

She emphasised the need for women to access continuous leadership development and professional growth opportunities to thrive in their careers.

According to her, these opportunities include formal training programmes, leadership workshops, and executive coaching.

She highlighted female leaders like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Mo Abudu, and Dr Lisa Su as proof that women can lead industries to new heights.

The industrialist stressed that investing in women’s economic empowerment fosters gender equality, poverty eradication, and inclusive economic growth.

She noted that women contribute significantly to economies—whether in business, farming, entrepreneurship, employment, or unpaid care work at home.

“One major way to support women in STEM is by establishing strong mentorship programmes offering guidance, support, and networking opportunities to advance their careers,” she said.

She explained that pairing women with experienced mentors builds confidence and provides access to vital industry knowledge.

“Both formal and informal mentorship opportunities are valuable. Formal programmes offer structured meetings and goals, while informal mentoring occurs through casual conversations and peer interactions,” she added.

Bakare-Okeowo also advocated for gender-responsive infrastructure to meet the needs of women and girls, enabling inclusive and sustainable development.

She said infrastructure systems such as energy, transport, water, sanitation, schools, housing, hospitals, waste management, and digital communications could empower women.

She called for greater participation of women and girls in sports and creative arts, urging targeted efforts to create an inclusive and supportive environment.

“A Nigeria where women and girls thrive is a Nigeria that prospers.

“Empowering women and girls is not just a moral imperative; it is a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic growth, social development, and national progress,” she stated. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng).

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

HIV treatment remains free in government facilities- NACA
Health

HIV treatment remains free in government facilities- NACA

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By Justina Auta

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) says information on social media regarding the withdrawal of subsidy for Antiretroviral (ARV) drugs is false.

Dr Temitope Ilori, Director-General, NACA, said this in a statement on Sunday in  Abuja.

Ilori said that the claim that ARV drugs will now cost N250,000 per dose with patients required to pay N500,000 monthly, is completely false and misleading.

“We want to categorically state that HIV treatment in Nigeria remains free of charge at government-approved health facilities.

“We give thanks to donor agencies, including the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the Global Fund, and other development partners for their continued support.

“There has been no withdrawal of funding or support from the US Government, USAID, or the World Health Organisation (WHO) regarding HIV treatment in Nigeria,” she said.

Ilori reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted access to HIV treatment.

She said that the collaboration with donor partners remained steadfast in providing free and accessible HIV treatment to all who needed it.

She urged the public to disregard the misinformation and avoid unnecessary panic, adding that NACA’s priority is to sustain the progress made in controlling HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.

The Director-General also cautioned against the spread of unverified information, as it can cause unnecessary fear and hinder efforts to combat HIV/AIDS.

“We encourage Nigerians to rely on verified sources for health-related information.

“NACA remains committed to ensuring that no person living with HIV is denied access to life-saving treatment due to misinformation or fear,” she said.

She encouraged the public to visit the official website of the agency or follow any of their verified social media platforms for accurate and up-to-date information on HIV treatment and prevention. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Franca Ofili/ Kadiri Abdulrahman

IWD: Lenders vow to revolutionise lending for women
Economy/Business

IWD: Lenders vow to revolutionise lending for women

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

The Money Lenders Association, in commemoration of the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD), has pledged to revolutionise the lending space in support of women-owned businesses, enabling them to fulfill their potential.

President of the association, Mr Gbemi Adelekan, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Lagos.

NAN reports that International Women’s Day, annually celebrated on March 8, is a global day to acknowledge the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

Adelekan said that licensed money lenders, in celebrating women, are providing small loans to help women in the country boost their incomes and support their families.

He stated that women, from petty traders to tailors, shop owners and market vendors, from entrepreneurs to online business owners, patronise licensed money lenders more than banks.

This, he noted, is because money lenders, aside from providing collateral-free loans, are more easily accessible and do not require excessive documentation.

“Many Nano, Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (NMSMEs) are mostly women-led and owned, so providing them with better financial options has helped improve women’s livelihoods and incomes,” he said.

Adelekan said that in Nigeria, NMSMEs account for more than 90 per cent of all enterprises, with the number of women-owned businesses on the rise in recent years.

He, however, said that access to credit from traditional banks still remained a tiresome task for most women.

He said that to circumvent the disappointments, more women could turn to mobile loan apps by licensed money lenders to get the required cash to meet emergency needs.

“The informal sector is a critical backbone of the economy of Nigeria, as it contributes to about 58.2 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“The Nigerian woman plays a major role in the economy through her activities in the informal sector, and money lenders will continue to provide inclusive financing for both the formal and the informal sectors.

Loan apps provide convenient and accessible financial services to underserved populations, who are mostly women, including those without traditional banking relationships or credit histories,” he said.

Adelekan restated that the association is committed to providing inclusive financing, irrespective of gender or ethnicity of borrowers, to help bridge the financial inclusion gap in the country.

A survey by NAN on Saturday in Lagos revealed that NMSMEs owned by women appreciated the swift access to finance, particularly to run their small businesses daily.

Mrs Ekom Essien, a baker, stated that employing the services of licensed money lenders was a smart decision for her business, given the uncertainty she experienced in the cost of flour, sugar, and other ingredients.

According to her, she has been using Kwikpay Credit for over five years, which offers loans to low-income earners, artisans, and NMSMEs.

Essien said that the difference between licensed money lenders and others is the manner in which repayments and interest are handled.

Also, Mrs Abiola Folorunsho, a dressmaker, said since she started utilising the services of money lenders, she had been able to do more with her skills.

She said that because of her ability to access a credit facility of up to N100,000, she had been able to expand her business by adding sales of fabrics and sewing materials.

“It is important for women, some of whom are breadwinners, to undertake various business ventures to improve the income of the home,” she said.

Mrs Beatrice Nwachukwu, a trader at Ajah market, said that the licensed lender she uses helped her build her credit history, which she then used to apply for an even larger loan.

She said that more women patronise their services due to the flexibility in the repayment of loans, including daily, weekly, or monthly installments, to accommodate the borrower’s cash flow. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Group urges women to report rights violations to ECOWAS Court
Foreign

Group urges women to report rights violations to ECOWAS Court

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By Mark Longyen

The ECOWAS Court Women’s Forum has called on West African women to always seek redress at the ECOWAS Court of Justice for gender-based violence and discrimination.

The forum’s President, Mrs Frances Ibanga, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

She spoke on the sidelines of a Street Walk organised by the group to celebrate the 2025 International Women’s Day with the theme “Accelerated Action” on Saturday.

According to Ibanga, the ECOWAS Court primarily serves as a human rights court, and urged women to bring forward cases of gender-based violence and discrimination for adjudication.

“Women have previously taken cases of gender-based violence to this court and achieved justice,” she said.

She cited the case of a female Air Force officer who was abused and raped, saying that the court upheld her rights.

“When she turned to this court, she found confidence and had her dignity restored.

“Today, she is enjoying the justice she fought for,” Ibanga added.

On the significance of the celebration, Ibanga said that it was all about advocacy for women to be given equal rights and opportunities in all ramifications.

According to her, there is need for women to take immediate steps, and be encouraged, to achieve whatever they want.

“We’ve come together for gender equality and, especially for the fact that the campaign theme for this year is “Accelerate Action.”

“Women have actually been talking, we have been making the proposals.

“We have been doing advocacy so that we can be integrated and have a place in society.

“The time for too much talk is gone, now is time for affirmative action,” she stressed.

She explained that the forum had over the years been at the forefront of supporting women and young school girls, by doing a lot for them.

“First and foremost, we create awareness, letting them know about their rights, and at the same time, empower them economically.

“We’ve made efforts to empower women economically; that way a lot of their poverty will be alleviated and women will be financially independent.

“We go to them from time to time to encourage them and to drive the campaign against all the vices, for example, drug abuse and all what not,” Ibanga said.

The Court’s Chief Registrar, Dr Yaouza Ouro-Sama, said women should be encouraged to change their mindset, to overcome inferiority complexes, and believe in their ability to achieve anything men could.

Also, Mrs Ami Savage, Head of the ECOWAS Court’s Administration and Human Resources Division, urged the Federal Government to make university-level education compulsory for every girl-child. (NAN)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Group urges FG to appoint Minister of state for youth
General News

Group urges FG to appoint Minister of state for youth

330 total views today

By Olasunkanmi Onifade

The Concerned Northern Youth Stakeholders have appealed to the Federal Government to appoint a Minister of State for Youth Development from Northern Nigeria.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the group’s Coordinator, Usman Doshiro, in Abuja.

He stated that such an appointment would facilitate the seamless execution of policies targeted at youth across all geopolitical zones, thereby fulfilling the administration’s promises ahead of 2027.

“Nigeria’s youth are diverse, and ensuring equitable leadership across regions will foster national unity and inclusiveness in youth policies.

“Given the enormous responsibility of the Ministry, appointing a Minister of State from the North will complement the efforts of Hon. Olawande and help in reaching more youth, especially in rural areas,” Doshiro said.

He further stated that the youth constituency remains the strongest pillar of support, adding that the appointment would inspire and mobilise young Nigerians towards national development, unity, and progress.

Doshiro reiterated the President’s commitment to youth empowerment and national transformation, stating that young people eagerly anticipate this strategic decision.

This, he added would reinforce the Renewed Hope Agenda and keep Nigeria’s youth actively engaged in nation-building.

“We are particularly grateful for the energetic and result-driven approach of the Minister of Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande.

“Under his leadership, we have seen a renewed focus on youth inclusivity, skills development, entrepreneurship, and leadership opportunities.

“However, to further strengthen the Ministry of Youth Development and ensure greater regional balance, deeper grassroots engagement, and expanded impact, we humbly appeal for the appointment of a Minister of State for Youth Development from Northern Nigeria,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Guinness World Record aspirant urges FG to address visa issues
General News

Guinness World Record aspirant urges FG to address visa issues

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By Nkiru Ifeajuna

A 26-year-old travel content creator, Alma Asinobi, has urged the government to address delays in obtaining visas for Nigerians travelling to various countries.

Asinobi made this known on Thursday while speaking to journalists about her proposed expedition to travel across seven continents by road in a bid to secure a Guinness World Record.

She claimed that obtaining travel visas was difficult for Nigerians, describing the process as discouraging.

“Your passport will be held for about a month, will not give you the visa, and no one will not tell you the reason why you did not get it.

“At every point, you start afresh and no explanation is given, yet, you are spending money, it is really disheartening,” she said.

She, therefore, called on the government to urgently address these issues to prevent further humiliation for Nigerian travellers.

Asinobi, a graduate of architecture from Covenant University, told journalists that she is set to embark on a journey across seven continents in 70 hours.

Expressing her concerns, she said: “Sometimes I am scared, other times I am not, because of the encouragement I get from people.

“I am passionate about what I am doing, which is travelling to various places,” she said.

She stated that she had studied multiple routes and alternatives for over five years to avoid being stranded due to time constraints.

According to her, at every stop on her journey, she must provide proof of her location by taking a picture of important places.

Asinobi said she is expected to use commercial transport throughout, adding that she would be guided by her GPS.

“I will start from March 15 to March 23; when I come back, there will be the signing of the Nigeria flag,” she said.

Meanwhile, Asinobi’s project lead, Blessing Abeng, expressed hope that improved diplomatic relations would eliminate visa queues at embassies.

“We do not want to be identified by our colour but to be treated like fellow humans, and also have better international relations,” she said.

She added that Asinobi had undergone both physical and mental assessments to ensure she was fit for the journey.

Eneyi Obi, Chief Marketing Officer of Rise Vest, one of Asinobi’s sponsors, said they support Nigerians making a positive global impact.

“The Nigerian flag is going to be on various continents. It is a good thing, so we need to come in,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Sandra Umeh

NiDCC President calls for strategic actions to improve Nigeria
General News

NiDCC President calls for strategic actions to improve Nigeria

495 total views today

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

President of Nigerians in Diaspora Chamber of Commerce (NiDCC), Ms Patience Key, has urged Nigerians to move beyond lamenting actions or inactions of past leaders and take strategic steps to build a better Nigeria.

Key, the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) candidate in the 2024 Edo governorship election, stated this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja.

The politician was apparently reacting to the autobiography of a former Military President, Retired Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, “A Journey in Service’’, recently launched in Abuja.

She said that the confirmation of the victory of the late Chief MKO Abiola’s in the June 12, 1993 presidential election, as contained in the book, was not saying anything new to Nigerians.

Key stated that the revelation did not erase the consequences of that annulment, including the political instability, economic stagnation and national disillusionment it birthed.

While stating that the the time for outrage was over, she urged Nigerians to channel their emotions into building a future where no one would be able to annul their collective destiny.

“If we continue in this cycle of reactionary frustration, nothing will change.

“Transformation requires more than righteous indignation; it demands disciplined, coordinated action,’’ she said.

To build Nigeria of our dream, there is the need for Nigerians to reclaim political power through strategic mobilisation.

“We must stop lamenting about bad leadership and start funding, supporting and electing transformational leaders at every level of government,’’ she said.

Key also stressed the need for harnessing Nigeria’s diaspora resources to enhance political and systemic change in the country.

She called for an end to ethnic and religious manipulations in the country, saying that the path forward was not just in criticism but in coalition-building across tribal and religious lines.

The former Chairman, Board of Directors, Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation in Americas, also called for building of economic independence to free Nigeria from external control.

She said that Nigeria must build self-sustaining industries that would harness its abundant human capital resources.

She also advocated for support for local businesses, investment in Nigerian innovation and implementation of policies that would put Nigeria first.

“Nigeria cannot remain a country that consumes everything and produces nothing.

“We must prioritise industrialisation, invest in local manufacturing, minimise environmental impact, effectively utilise natural resources, waste reduction, promote circular economy principles.

“We must ensure our natural wealth benefits Nigerians—not foreign corporations and corrupt politicians,’’ she said.

Key also stressed the need for forging a unified national identity by putting Nigeria first before ethnicity, religion and other things capable of dividing Nigerians.

While urging the youth to take control of their future and support credible leaders, Key said that Nigerian professionals and entrepreneurs should also believe and invest in Nigeria.

She called on Nigerians in the diaspora to use their influence to demand reforms, fund political change and invest in industries that would break the country’s dependency on foreign aidd. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

Touray urges media to fight anti-democratic narratives, uphold ethics
Foreign

Touray urges media to fight anti-democratic narratives, uphold ethics

268 total views today

By Mark Longyen

Dr Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, has called on the media to deploy modern technology tools to identify and counter anti-democratic narratives, combat disinformation, and uphold ethical journalism.

Touray gave the charge at a two-day training for journalists on ‘tackling misinformation, disinformation and anti-democratic narratives,’ on Wednesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training was jointly organised by ECOWAS; the German development agency, GIZ; Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) and Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA).

Touray, represented by the Director of Cabinet in his office, Abdou Kolley, said ECOWAS had initiated proactive measures to strengthen the capacity of the media and reinforce democratic principles.

“Through this training initiative, we aim to equip journalists with the necessary tools to identify and counter anti-democratic narratives, combat disinformation, and uphold ethical journalism.

“Over the next two days, participants will be empowered with practical skills and knowledge to identify key actors and influencers behind these information campaigns and develop strategies to counter false narratives.

“It is, therefore, expected that at the end of this training, participants will be much stronger and better equipped to identify and analyse the actors, who are responsible for spreading false information,” he said.

Touray urged the participants to master advanced fact-checking methodologies to verify information and ensure accuracy in reporting, and also utilise open source intelligence tools to analyse trends and detect disinformation.

He also tasked them on leveraging artificial intelligence for enhanced investigative journalism, human rights violations investigations linked to disinformation and anti-democratic actions, and strengthen conflict-sensitive reporting to promote peace and social cohesion.

The commission’s president further challenged the media to foster media information literacy to help audiences discern credible information from falsehoods, adding that, “This training is more than just an event, it is a call to action.”

“You should foster media information and establish stronger collaboration between ECOWAS and media practitioners to promote democracy, good governance, and sustainable development.

“Apply fact-checking techniques, and open source information tools in investigative journalism, utilise AI-driven approaches to detect patterns in disinformation campaigns, and strengthen their role in safeguarding human rights.

“The knowledge gained here must be translated into impactful journalism that holds power to account, fosters peace, and strengthens democracy.

“It should also enhance ethical and responsible reporting, and promote media ethics, digital security, and legal considerations in journalism,” he said.

Also speaking, Mr Matthias Dold, Political Counselor, German Embassy, Abuja, noted that misinformation, disinformation,  information disorder, and information pollution, were far spread, both in the West African subregion and in Europe.

According to him, such challenges affected the society but could be overcome with the support of the media and its support role in promoting and advocating for peace and regional stability in West Africa.

Dold said that, where misinformation and disinformation lead to discrimination, hate, or even violence, its effects could be very dangerous and detrimental to development, hence the need for responsible, ethical, and well-informed media.

“This training presents an opportunity for us to work together to curb the threats of disinformation and misinformation before they negatively impact our harmonious coexistence and the progress of the West African subregion.

“As the representative of the German government, I can assure you that we remain fully committed to supporting ECOWAS in this endeavour.

“Western countries are often the target of disinformation, we have a mutual interest in ensuring an open and responsible information sphere.

“We share a common vision with ECOWAS to address the region’s challenges, and to create opportunities for regional economic integration, peace and stability.

“As peace and stability in the region is not just beneficial to the region but also to Europe and to Germany,” he said.

Dr Kojo Impraim of the Media Foundation for West Africa, identified three major crises confronting the world, which he listed as political crisis, security crisis, and information disorder or pollution.

According to him, increased prevalence of misinformation and polarisation, particularly election-related misinformation, often intensify the threat to peace and democracy in the ECOWAS subregion.

“The media is caught up in this world, and unfortunately, have become a purveyor or transmitter of information disorder in the region, pushing out narratives, which are causing tension and division in our communities.

“The media, as a critical actor of democracy, is now becoming a strong actor when it comes to the spread of misinformation, and we need to confront it,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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