Nigeria has officially been designated as the host of the world’s first UNESCO Category-2 International Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Institute, following the 43rd General Conference of the Communication and Information Commission (CI Session) held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
The approval positions Nigeria as a global leader in combating misinformation and disinformation, enabling the country to drive international research, policy dialogue, and capacity-building in media and information literacy.
In a statement signed by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the Minister described the approval as “a strong vote of confidence in our nation.”
“The Nigerian government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is committed to fostering a society where responsible free speech is seen as the engine of national progress. A central pillar of our strategy is the democratisation of digital opportunities, with media and information literacy as the key driver,” he added.
Idris recalled that the recognition crowns a long journey that began in October 2022, when Nigeria hosted the 10th Edition of the Global Media and Information Literacy and Feature Conference in Abuja and pledged to UNESCO the establishment of the Institute in the country.
He also congratulated President Tinubu, saying the achievement reflects his commitment to the Nigerian project as articulated in the Renewed Hope Agenda. “This is equally a big win for all Nigerians and the continent of Africa,” Idris noted.
According to the Minister, the Institute will serve as an international observatory and hub, equipping individuals and communities worldwide to navigate the digital age with discernment and confidence. The formal launch is scheduled for February 2026 in Abuja, with UNESCO officials, member states, and strategic partners expected to attend.