Crystal Dike
The Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Nigeria, Mr. Michal Cygan, has emphasised the critical role of the media in combating disinformation across societies.
Cygan made the remarks at a journalists’ meeting on disinformation held on December 11, 2025, in Abuja. The event was organised by the Polish Embassy in partnership with the Female Journalists’ Network of Nigeria under the theme “Bridging Perception Gaps: Combating Misinformation, Disinformation, and Fake News for Stronger Nigeria–Poland Relations.”
The ambassador said disinformation and misinformation transcend language barriers and can cause significant harm globally. He noted that the media, with its wide reach across different platforms, is strategically positioned to counter false narratives.
Cygan added that regular trainings and engagements for media professionals are essential to strengthening the fight against disinformation in both Poland and Nigeria.
He stressed that the influence and responsibility of the media in shaping public discourse make it a vital tool in curbing misleading content.
The Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VoN), Mr. Jibrin Ndace, said misinformation has become a major challenge to national cohesion, diplomatic relations, and public trust worldwide.
“For countries such as Nigeria and Poland, which are committed to democracy, transparency, and mutual cooperation, truth and accuracy in disseminated information are essential building blocks for stronger ties,” he said.
Ndace reaffirmed VoN’s mandate to project Nigeria’s authentic narrative, strengthen national identity, and promote global understanding, noting the urgency of these responsibilities in an era where false narratives often spread faster than verified facts.
He also highlighted the central role of women in VoN’s operations, describing female broadcasters as key drivers of editorial, administrative, and external broadcasting responsibilities.
Ndace said VoN currently broadcasts in multiple languages—including English, French, Arabic, Kiswahili, Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo and Fulfulde—with plans to introduce Mandarin and Portuguese.
The Executive Director of the Development Specs Academy, Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, noted that the digital revolution has transformed the global information space, increasing the speed and complexity of communication and contributing to misinformation challenges.
He argued that treating truth as a form of soft power would help safeguard the integrity of international relations and promote accuracy, accountability, and public trust in an era dominated by misinformation.