The 2025 Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week has kicked-off with a 2-day activities at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), under the theme: “Promoting AI Adoption and Gratification through MIL.”
The events, co-hosted by the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) which is domiciled at NOUN and the UNESCO, brought together academics, media practitioners, students, and technology enthusiasts to explore the intersection between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Media Literacy in an era of rapid digital transformation.
The first activity was a sensitisation walk through major streets of Abuja, aimed at raising public awareness on the importance of responsible media use and the role of Artificial Intelligence in shaping public discourse and decision making.
Speaking during the walk, the Acting Director of IMILI, Prof. Lateef Adelakun, emphasised that MIL Week is not just a celebration but a global call to action.
“We are in an age where Artificial Intelligence influences everything from what we watch to how we think.
“The sensitisation walk is to remind Nigerians that understanding media and technology empowers citizens to make informed choices and combat misinformation,” he said upon reaching Eagles Square where the walk halted.
Adelakun explained that IMILI, in collaboration with UNESCO, remains committed to promoting critical thinking and digital inclusion through education and advocacy.
The second day featured the official opening ceremony, attended by dignitaries, scholars, and representatives from international organisations.
The symposium was declared open by the by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, represented by the Director of Information and Orientation, Mr. Henshaw Ogubike.
In his address, the miinister, stressed the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting media literacy and responsible AI adoption in Nigeria.
“The Ministry is aware of the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence on public opinion and the spread of misinformation.”
“Through policy initiatives and partnerships, we are working to ensure that AI tools are used to strengthen and not distort our information landscape,” Idris said.
The minister encouraged stakeholders to continue engaging in constructive conversations on technology, ethics, and literacy.
Delivering his opening remarks, NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, lauded IMILI’s initiative in hosting such a timely event.
“At NOUN,” Prof. Peters said, “we believe that education must evolve with technology. As AI continues to shape our learning environments and information ecosystems, it is imperative that we also equip our citizens with the skills to navigate this new digital frontier responsibly.”
He noted that the university’s Open and Distance Learning (ODL) model already integrates AI-driven tools to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
In his welcome address, Prof. Adelakun thanked participants and partners for their support, noting that the theme was carefully chosen to reflect current realities.
“Artificial Intelligence is redefining communication, education, and governance. Our goal at IMILI is to ensure that AI adoption in Nigeria is not only innovative but also ethical and inclusive,” he said.
Representing Mr. Abdourahamane Diallo, the Head of UNESCO in Nigeria, Mrs. Yachat Nuhu, reaffirmed UN body’s continued support for global and national efforts to promote media and information literacy.
“UNESCO recognises that AI can be a force for good, but only when guided by human rights and ethical principles.
“Media literacy is the bridge that ensures AI is used for empowerment rather than exploitation,” he said.
Diallo also commended NOUN for creating a platform that fosters dialogue and collaboration between academia, media, and policy stakeholders.
There was also a discussion session titled “Promoting AI Adoption and Gratification through MIL,” moderated by Dr. Jacob Shagbaor Suemo, Head of Mass Communication Department, Nile University of Nigeria.
Panelists included Hadiza Naja’atu Tijani, reporter with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA); Summaya Adam Ahmad, a Non-Interest Banker; and Peter Oyeneye, Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
The session explored how AI technologies can enhance information access, media credibility, and professional practice while also addressing concerns over data privacy and misinformation.
Adding a youthful flair to the ceremony was a spoken word performance by Miss Favour Ekwebene, an SS3 student from Spiritan International Girls’ Secondary School, Abuja.
Her piece, titled: “AI in My World,” captivated the audience with poetic reflections on technology, truth, and the power of media.
Ms. Mabel Madu, Deputy Registrar of IMILI, offered the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, partners, and participants.
"Your presence today demonstrates that the future of AI and Media Literacy in Nigeria is bright and inclusive,” she said.
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