Nigeria has stepped boldly onto the global stage with the launch of the world’s first International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI), a groundbreaking initiative developed in partnership with the UNESCO.
The institute was officially unveiled in Abuja by the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, positioning Nigeria at the forefront of global efforts to strengthen media literacy, tackle misinformation, and promote critical thinking in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The creation of IMILI marks a historic milestone, not only for Nigeria but for Africa and the wider international community, as it becomes the first UNESCO Category 2 Institute globally dedicated solely to Media and Information Literacy.
Speaking at the launch, Mariya Gabriel described the institute as a timely and transformative response to one of the most pressing challenges of the modern era—ensuring that access to information leads to informed, responsible, and empowered societies.
“In a world where the volume of information continues to grow exponentially, the ability to distinguish between reliable and misleading content has become essential,” she said.
IMILI is expected to function as a global hub for research, innovation, and capacity development in media literacy. It will provide training for educators, policymakers, media professionals, and young people, equipping them with the skills needed to critically engage with information, counter misinformation, and actively participate in democratic processes.
The institute will also support curriculum development, strengthen international collaboration, and connect Nigeria to a global network of expertise, reinforcing Media and Information Literacy as a universal public good.
UNESCO commended the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his role in bringing the initiative to life, while also acknowledging the contributions of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, whose efforts were described as instrumental in advancing the media literacy agenda.
The organisation further recognised the collaborative input of key stakeholders, including the Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO, the UNESCO Abuja Office, and Nigeria’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO, all of whom played vital roles in establishing the institute.
By hosting IMILI, Nigeria is sending a strong signal that Africa is not merely reacting to the challenges of the digital age but is actively shaping global solutions. With its vibrant media landscape, youthful population, and expanding digital ecosystem, the country is uniquely positioned to lead this transformative effort.
Beyond its institutional significance, the launch of IMILI reflects a broader commitment to empowering citizens—not just to access information, but to understand, question, and use it responsibly. As the institute begins operations, it is expected to strengthen trust, promote informed decision-making, and advance democratic values across Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.