EU Moves to Counter Disinformation in North-West Nigeria
The European Union has launched an 18-month initiative aimed at addressing the spread of disinformation in North-West Nigeria and strengthening the region’s information environment.
The project is being implemented by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) and is designed to promote access to credible information, improve media literacy, and support democratic stability in the region.
It will focus on Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, and Niger States, where officials say insecurity, displacement, economic challenges, and increased digital communication have contributed to the rapid spread of false and misleading information.
The EU noted that disinformation in such contexts often fuels mistrust, social tension, and instability, while also undermining peaceful coexistence and democratic processes.
The programme will bring together journalists, civil society groups, security agencies, community leaders, and digital influencers to identify and counter harmful narratives before they escalate.
CJID said the intervention will include training educators on media literacy, strengthening journalists’ skills in fact-checking and conflict-sensitive reporting, establishing campus-based verification networks, and engaging religious and traditional leaders to promote accurate information within communities.
