The Federal Government has described the launch of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) as a major step toward promoting responsible information use, strengthening democratic resilience, and combating misinformation in Nigeria and beyond.
The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known at the close of the two-day official launch of the Institute held at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
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Represented by the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council, Dr. Dili Ezughah, the Minister said the establishment of IMILI marks a defining moment that positions Nigeria at the forefront of global efforts to advance media and information literacy in the digital age.
He noted that the successful hosting of the Institute aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in promoting transparency, civic engagement, and inclusive national development.
“This marks the beginning of a transformative journey, not just for Nigeria, but for Africa and the global community. IMILI is more than an institution; it is a platform for collaboration, innovation, and measurable impact in media and information literacy,” he said.
The Minister explained that deliberations during the event, including goodwill messages and the presentation of IMILI’s Strategic Plan (2026–2030), have provided a clear roadmap for the Institute’s vision, operations, and long-term sustainability.
He added that IMILI is designed as a global hub for research, capacity building, and policy dialogue, bringing together educators, journalists, policymakers, and young leaders to promote critical thinking and responsible engagement in the information ecosystem.
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According to him, tackling the growing challenges of misinformation and disinformation requires a whole-of-society approach involving government, the private sector, academia, media, civil society, and international partners, including UNESCO.
He stressed that media and information literacy has become essential in an era shaped by rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence, and the constant flow of information.
“The ability to think critically, verify information, and engage responsibly is fundamental to building resilient societies and safeguarding democratic institutions,” he said.
Describing Nigeria’s hosting of the world’s first UNESCO Category 2 Institute dedicated to media and information literacy as both a moment of national pride and a call to global responsibility, the Minister urged stakeholders to promote truth, accountability, and ethical communication.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to working with UNESCO, development partners, academic institutions, and the media to ensure that IMILI delivers measurable outcomes.
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The Minister also called on stakeholders to sustain the momentum generated at the launch by translating ideas into concrete actions, strengthening partnerships, and fostering a culture where information empowers citizens and supports sustainable development.
The event brought together key stakeholders from government, academia, and the communications sector, including former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed; Vice Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma; Director Public Communications at the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Barr. Henshaw Ogubike; Director of IMILI, Dr. Sharon Omotosho; and President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Ike Neliaku, among others.