Collaborative effort needed to fight misinformation, disinformation – IGP

JONAS EZIEKE, Abuja

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Egbetokun has harped on the importance of credible journalism guided by professionalism in maintaining national and global stability.

He reiterated the call at the maiden Diplomatic/Security International Conference organised by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria DICAN in Abuja.

Represented by DCP Kabiru Abdullahi, IGP Egbetokun stated that “misinformation, disinformation and fake news are crimes that should be of concern to all,” stressing the need for accurate and responsible reporting.

“Crisis happening in other parts of the world may affect others because the world has become a global village.

“In northern and Central Nigeria, we are having problems of banditry and kidnapping and also in South-South and South-Western Nigeria, we are having issues of gunmen, while in the North-East, we are having problems of insurgency.

“There is a connection between what is happening in Nigeria and our neighbouring countries or other countries in the world, as certainly such a crisis will have a devastating impact.

“You will see that something that happened thousands of miles away in other countries, when people decide to send misinformation, fake information, certain people may likely react to what is happening elsewhere.

“So, the importance of credible information is very, very crucial at this stage of our lives,” he said.

The conference brought together stakeholders to discuss the critical role of diplomacy, intelligence, and media in shaping national and global stability.

Held under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event aligns with Nigeria’s 4Ds Foreign Policy Strategy: Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora Engagement, championed by Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar.

The high-level gathering, attended by ambassadors, policymakers, media leaders, and strategic stakeholders, focused on combatting global security challenges in an era of misinformation, disinformation, and misperceptions.

The conference provided a platform for stakeholders to share insights and expertise on how to address these challenges and promote national and global stability.

Highlights of the conference were the presentation of Merit-Based Excellence Awards to distinguished individuals and institutions who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to global peace, security, and cooperation.

The DICAN Chairman stressed that “These awards are not for decoration. They are a call to action for individuals and institutions to redouble their efforts in promoting security, development, and responsible global partnerships.”

He also invited stakeholders to DICAN’s upcoming Diplomatic/Trade, Investment, Business Networking Conference & Exhibition, scheduled for October 28–29, 2025.

The event aims to strengthen international business ties and showcase investment and tourism opportunities, further solidifying DICAN’s commitment to promoting security, development, and cooperation.

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