The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), in collaboration with the European Union (EU), is hosting a one-day training programme for editors and media executives to tackle the growing menace of fake news, disinformation, and misinformation in Nigeria’s media landscape.

 

In a joint statement signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild explained that the training, taking place today, July 25, 2025, in Lagos, is part of a strategic effort to equip editors with the skills and tools necessary to promote accurate and trustworthy journalism.

 

According to the Guild, the initiative comes in response to growing concerns that unchecked fake news and disinformation threaten the credibility of journalists, undermine public trust, and pose a risk to national stability.

 

“The EU and the NGE will organise a one-day training programme for editors and media executives across different media platforms,” the statement read.

 

“The objective of the programme is to equip editors with the necessary skills and knowledge required to identify and debunk misinformation, fake news, and disinformation, while promoting accurate reporting and reinforcing the discipline of verification.”

 

 

 

The NGE noted that in an era of rapid digital communication and social media proliferation, misinformation can spread swiftly and widely, often with devastating consequences. The Guild emphasized the critical role of editors in ensuring accuracy, reliability, and accountability in media reporting.

 

“While editors are gatekeepers of information in their organisations, recent experiences have shown that many require technical training to effectively spot and counter false narratives,” the statement added.

 

 

 

The programme is expected to benefit 50 editors drawn from print, broadcast, and online media. It aims to enhance fact-checking capabilities, improve editorial standards, and promote informed public discourse by ensuring that citizens have access to truthful and verified information.

 

Prominent media professionals, including Mr. Azu Isiekwene, Executive Vice Chairman/Editor-in-Chief of LEADERSHIP Newspapers, and Dr. David Ajikobi, Executive Director of Africa Check, will lead various sessions.

 

Key topics to be addressed include:

 

Principles of Fact-Checking: The editor’s role in ensuring accuracy, fairness, and transparency

 

Identifying Misinformation and Disinformation: Case studies and analysis

 

Fact-Checking Tools and Resources: Practical tools for tackling complex misinformation scenarios

 

 

The event will be declared open by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, His Excellency Gautier Mignot, following brief introductory remarks.

 

The NGE concluded by stressing that promoting accurate journalism is essential for holding leaders accountable, fostering national development, and ensuring that the media remains a reliable pillar of democracy.