Nigeria and Türkiye have agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in strategic communication, media development and the fight against misinformation and disinformation.
The agreement followed a meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and Türkiye’s Head of the Directorate of Communications, Professor Burhanettin Duran, in Istanbul on Saturday.
The meeting was held on the sidelines of the TRT World Forum as both countries explored stronger collaboration in communication, broadcasting, cultural exchange and public diplomacy.
Idris said Nigeria was ready to work more closely with Türkiye to tackle fake news, misinformation, disinformation and the misuse of artificial intelligence, which he described as growing threats to public trust, social cohesion and national and international security.
He stressed the need for stronger international partnerships, responsible use of emerging technologies and improved media literacy to address the rapidly changing global information environment.
The minister also highlighted Nigeria’s role as host of the world’s first Category 2 International Media and Information Literacy Institute, describing the facility as a platform for international collaboration, professional training and building resilience against information disorder.
Idris commended Türkiye for its expanding engagement with Africa and Nigeria, as well as the growing presence of Turkish state broadcaster TRT on the continent, particularly through its Hausa-language service.
He also praised the Turkish government for hosting President Bola Tinubu earlier in the year, saying the visit had opened opportunities for broader cooperation between both countries.
Duran described Nigeria as an important regional and international partner, citing its strategic position, cultural diversity and professional resources.
He expressed Türkiye’s interest in deeper institutional cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in broadcasting, content exchange, professional training and technical development.
The Turkish communications chief also welcomed possible Memoranda of Understanding between Turkish institutions and Nigeria’s public media organisations.
He invited Nigeria to participate in the Sixth International Strategic Communication Summit scheduled for Istanbul in January 2027.
The summit is expected to focus on international cooperation, coordination and strategic communication responses to emerging global challenges.
