Nigerian Editors And EU Join Forces To Combat Fake News In Landmark Training.
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has partnered with the European Union (EU) to host a one-day training programme in Lagos on 25 July 2025, aimed at equipping editors and media executives with tools to tackle the growing scourge of fake news, disinformation, and misinformation in Nigeria’s media landscape. The initiative, announced in a statement by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, responds to mounting concerns over the damage that false information inflicts on journalistic credibility and public trust.
The programme, supported institutionally by the EU, targets 50 editors from print, online, and broadcast media. It focuses on enhancing fact-checking skills, promoting accurate and trustworthy reporting, and instilling a culture of rigorous verification. The NGE emphasised that editors play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability of published content, which is critical for informed decision-making, societal stability, and holding governments accountable. The training will cover key topics, including the principles of fact-checking, identifying misinformation, and using advanced fact-checking tools to analyse complex scenarios.
The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, officially opened the workshop, underscoring the importance of a robust media environment in countering disinformation. The NGE highlighted that the rapid spread of false information, amplified by social media and digital platforms, poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s democratic processes. By equipping editors with cutting-edge skills, the programme aims to bolster the media’s role as a gatekeeper of truth.
Expected outcomes include improved accuracy in reporting and a stronger ability to debunk false narratives, ultimately fostering greater public access to reliable information. The collaboration marks a significant step in addressing Nigeria’s disinformation challenges, with the NGE expressing optimism about its potential to transform the media landscape. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to strengthening journalism in Nigeria, aligning with global efforts to promote media literacy and combat information disorders.
