The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has strengthened its human capital development efforts by training youths in critical reading skills to help them identify misinformation, analyse information objectively and make better decisions in the digital age.
The one-day workshop, organised by the commission in collaboration with Human Dignity Network in Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State, brought together young people from across the state for discussions on the importance of responsible information consumption.
Representing the Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr Chiedu Ebie, at the event, his Senior Aide, Dr Godwin Edozie, said the initiative was designed to equip youths with the ability to navigate the increasing volume of information available, particularly on social media platforms.
Edozie urged participants to develop the habit of examining information carefully before accepting or sharing it, stressing the need for young people to become responsible contributors to society.
A Professor of African Literature at Delta State University, Abraka, Professor Enajite Ojaruega, who delivered a lecture titled “Building Foundations for Critical Reading,” advised participants to question the credibility, purpose and context of information before drawing conclusions.
Ojaruega explained that critical reading goes beyond simply understanding written words, noting that it involves evaluating facts, identifying opinions and recognising possible bias in messages, especially those circulated online.
She said the training was timely because social media has changed how people receive and share information, making it necessary for individuals to develop stronger analytical skills.
The professor commended the NDDC for expanding its interventions beyond physical infrastructure to include investments in human capacity development, describing the focus on youths as important because of their role in shaping the future of society.
Also speaking at the workshop, Leadership Development and Human Rights Consultant, Joseph Ogah, encouraged participants to examine sources, language and patterns in information presentation to identify possible bias.
Ogah said developing questioning and analytical abilities would help young people avoid manipulation and make informed judgments.
In another session, Dr Nosakhare Osakue of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, urged participants to avoid rushing to conclusions, advising them to combine available facts, background knowledge and context before forming opinions.
A participant, Engr. Tega Oghoghorie from Ethiope East, said the programme had changed his approach to online information, adding that he would now verify the originality and facts behind posts before sharing them.
The workshop reflects the NDDC’s increasing focus on youth development through knowledge-based programmes, with the commission emphasising that empowering young people with critical thinking skills is essential in combating the spread of false information.
