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The Nigerian Federal Government has officially announced the initiation of steps to tackle the growing threat of misinformation and manipulation powered by AI-deepfakes. This strategic move was disclosed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a meeting in Abuja with a delegation from the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), led by its Director-General, Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi.
A central pillar of the government’s new strategy involves strengthening media and information literacy among the populace. Minister Idris emphasised that as AI-generated content becomes increasingly sophisticated, it is crucial to equip citizens with the critical thinking skills necessary to identify deepfakes and other forms of digital manipulation. This effort is aimed at building public resilience against false narratives that erode social cohesion and trust in institutions.
Tackling AI-powered Disinformation Aimed at Fostering Better Public Communications
The minister emphasised that the success of public service reforms is intrinsically linked to how they are communicated to the people. He argued that a lack of understanding often breeds resistance, making transparent and effective communication a vital component of governance. Idris stressed that it is the government’s responsibility to clearly articulate the purpose and benefits of reforms, ensuring Nigerians perceive them as being designed for the collective good rather than as punitive measures.
The discussion also touched upon the tangible successes already achieved through digitisation, particularly in the realm of public financial management. According to the Minister, the integration of digital tools has significantly enhanced transparency and helped block financial leakages across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). This progress demonstrates the practical benefits of embracing technology in governance, even as the government works to mitigate the misuse of AI-deepfakes for disinformation.
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Tackling AI-deepfakes by Leveraging its Extensive Network of Media Agencies
To amplify these reform efforts and ensure accurate information reaches the public, the ministry plans to leverage its extensive network of media agencies. Idris confirmed that bodies such as the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Voice of Nigeria (VON), and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) will play a crucial role. These platforms will be instrumental in disseminating clear and consistent messages about government policies and reforms nationwide.
Echoing the Minister’s sentiments, the BPSR Director-General, Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi, affirmed the bureau’s commitment to collaborating closely with the information ministry. He noted that this partnership is essential for enhancing the communication of reform agendas and strengthening overall transparency across all MDAs. The synergy between the two bodies is expected to create a more cohesive and accountable public service environment.
Furthermore, Arabi provided specific examples of how digitisation initiatives have already yielded measurable results in public administration. He pointed to the reduction of payroll irregularities, such as the prevalence of “ghost workers,” as a key achievement. These digital reforms, implemented at the federal, state, and local government levels, have substantially improved payroll integrity, ensuring that public funds are directed towards genuine employees and services.
