ECOWAS partners with German Cooperation to train Nigerian journalists against misinformation

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission and the German Cooperation have launched a training initiative aimed at enhancing the skills of Nigerian media professionals. The focus is on fact-checking, Media Information Literacy (MIL), and promoting information integrity within the ECOWAS region.

A group of 40 journalists from various media sectors, including broadcast, print, and online platforms, will participate in this two-day training session in Abuja, Nigeria. This event takes place from March 5 to March 6, 2025, and is organized in collaboration with the Center for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA).

This initiative aligns with ECOWAS Vision 2050, which envisions a peaceful and prosperous community integrated with strong institutions that uphold fundamental freedoms and support inclusive development.

Mr. Joel Ahofodji, Head of Communications Division at ECOWAS, highlighted the significance of this training by stating: “For some time now, ECOWAS has been seriously confronted with the problems of misinformation, disinformation and fake news, which threatens the stability of our institutions and our member states. This training comes at an important time for the ECOWAS region, as we need to mobilise all stakeholders to combat this scourge and promote the integrity of information in our regional space.”

The trainings are supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through its Organisational Development Programme. The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH also provides assistance.

Recognizing the media's crucial role in promoting peace and stability amid socio-political challenges in West Africa, ECOWAS emphasizes responsible journalism to counter misinformation. This Nigerian cohort marks the beginning of a series planned across all ECOWAS member states.

The program aims not only to equip journalists with necessary skills but also to foster networks among them for sharing best practices. These efforts are part of broader goals to promote peace, democracy, good governance, and sustainable development within the ECOWAS Community.

ECOWAS continues its mission across West Africa to enhance cooperation among member states while contributing to economic stability and progress on the continent.