Nigeria, Türkiye Strengthen Media Partnership, Join Forces Against Misinformation
Nigeria and Türkiye have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations in media development, strategic communication, cultural exchange and the fight against misinformation and disinformation.
The commitment was made during a bilateral meeting in Istanbul, Türkiye, on Saturday between Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and the Head of Türkiye’s Directorate of Communications, Professor Burhanettin Duran, on the sidelines of the TRT World Forum.
During the meeting, Idris appreciated the Turkish Government for inviting Nigeria to the international forum, noting that both countries share common interests in promoting global peace, security, cultural understanding and economic development.
He also commended Türkiye for its growing engagement with Africa and Nigeria, particularly through the activities of the Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT), which has expanded its presence on the continent through its Hausa-language service, engagement of Nigerian media professionals and training opportunities.
The Minister described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s earlier visit to Türkiye as a significant milestone that had created fresh opportunities for stronger bilateral cooperation.
Idris further expressed Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with Türkiye in tackling fake news, misinformation, disinformation and the misuse of artificial intelligence, warning that these challenges pose serious threats to public trust, social cohesion and national security.
He stressed the importance of international partnerships, responsible use of emerging technologies and improved media literacy in addressing the challenges confronting the global information environment.
The Minister also highlighted Nigeria’s hosting of the world’s first Category 2 International Media and Information Literacy Institute, describing the institution as a platform for international cooperation, professional development and building resilience against misinformation.
He subsequently expressed his desire to receive Professor Duran in Nigeria to explore practical areas of cooperation and further strengthen relations between both countries.
In his response, Professor Duran described Nigeria as an important regional and international partner, citing its strategic position, cultural diversity and professional resources.
He reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to expanding cultural relations and professional exchanges with Nigeria, particularly in the communication and broadcasting industries.
Duran also welcomed plans to sign and activate Memoranda of Understanding between relevant Turkish institutions and Nigerian public media organisations, including the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and Voice of Nigeria (VON).
According to him, the agreements would facilitate cooperation in broadcasting, content exchange, professional training and technical development.
The Turkish communications chief also invited Nigeria to participate in the Sixth International Strategic Communication Summit scheduled to hold in Istanbul in January 2027.
The summit is expected to focus on strengthening international cooperation, improving coordination and developing strategic communication responses to emerging global challenges.
Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to sustained engagement and stronger institutional partnerships to advance peace, security and mutual development.
