Nigeria has urged deeper collaboration among Developing-8 (D-8) nations to strengthen media systems, combat misinformation, and foster regional cohesion.
The call was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, during the D-8 Media Forum held in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Represented at the forum by the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council, Dr. Nze Dili Ezughah, the minister highlighted the urgency of cooperation in an era dominated by digital disruption and rapid information flows.
“In today’s global communication landscape, misinformation spreads quickly, and coordinated media efforts are essential for sustaining informed societies,” Idris said.
He emphasized that the D-8 countries, with a combined GDP exceeding $8 trillion and intra-group trade accounting for 10 percent of global commerce, have the potential to leverage media collaboration to shape public understanding and reinforce economic and social development.
The minister outlined several initiatives Nigeria has undertaken to strengthen its media ecosystem, including the establishment of the UNESCO-backed International Media and Information Literacy Institute, the first of its kind in Africa.
The institute serves as a global hub for journalism training, research, and digital safety, equipping professionals and citizens alike with tools to counter misinformation.
Idris invited D-8 member states to partner with Nigeria in curriculum development, capacity-building, and joint research efforts.
Highlighting Nigeria’s advances in digital governance, he noted that over 100 million digital identities have been registered, improving access to public services and fostering trust in digital transactions.
“Nigeria’s digital identity infrastructure can support D-8 countries in linking media systems with verified identities to curb fake news and impersonation,” he added.
The minister also stressed the growing influence of Nigeria’s creative industries on global diplomacy.
The nation’s film, music, and digital storytelling sectors, supported by innovation hubs and policy reforms, have enhanced Nigeria’s international image while creating employment opportunities for millions of young people.
Idris also detailed how economic reforms, including subsidy rationalisation and foreign exchange adjustments, have enhanced media reporting and public confidence in government communication.
Proposals for strengthening media cooperation among D-8 countries include joint media literacy programs for youth, journalists, policymakers, and vulnerable groups; collaborative research on artificial intelligence and verification tools; cross-border newsroom partnerships; and deeper collaboration in creative and digital content sectors.
“Nigeria sees the D-8 not only as an economic bloc but as a community of nations with shared aspirations.
“Cooperation in media and information is vital for building informed citizens, cohesive societies, and resilient economies.
”Nigeria is ready to work with member states to deepen dialogue, strengthen public trust, and enhance stability, ” he said.
