By Michael Onjewu, Abuja
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasized the critical role of media collaboration in combating the scourge of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation.
Idris made the call at the special release ceremony of the global solicitation results themed “Written in the Sky: My China Story” organized by China Media Group (CMG) in Abuja on Tuesday.
The event, which celebrated cultural and linguistic exchanges between Nigeria and China, attracted distinguished personalities including Hon Jaafaru Yakubu, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Nigeria-China Relations; Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria; Song Jianing, CMG Africa Bureau Chief; Chris Isigusor, National President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists; Members of the Diplomatic Community, Business Leaders, Academic Scholars, Media Executives, and Journalists.
Minister Idris, who was represented by the Director of Public Relations and Protocols, Suleima Haruna emphasized that media outlets are essential in guiding society and fostering mutual understanding.
“They promote progress and contribute to the advancement of societal, economic, and cultural domains,” he said, recognizing the influence of responsible journalism in shaping public perception and encouraging informed discourse.
Idris commended the China Media Group for its commitment to delivering credible news and producing content that positively impacts both nations. He stressed the need for balance in reporting, particularly in showcasing national achievements, and called for the creation of inspiring content that fuels aspirations for future growth.
“Advances in technology have enabled the rapid dissemination of information across vast distances,” he noted. “While this presents tremendous opportunities, it also introduces significant challenges, particularly the growing threat of misinformation.”
He called for a united front in tackling these issues, emphasizing that collaboration between Nigerian and Chinese media is vital in addressing the challenges posed by false narratives.
The Minister highlighted recent agreements signed during the Forum of China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) that focus on media exchange and collaboration, further solidifying the partnership with CMG. These agreements aim to enhance bilateral relations and foster a deeper understanding between the two nations.
Earlier in his remarks, Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria said the recent elevation of China-Nigeria relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership at the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) aims to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including media, as evidenced by the signing of several bilateral cooperation documents.
Ambassador Yu emphasized the importance of the partnership actions announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the FOCAC opening ceremony. These actions focus on mutual learning, trade prosperity, industrial cooperation, connectivity, and more, aiming to improve the well-being of both Chinese and African people.
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