Uba Sani to Info Managers: Shut Down Fake News
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has emphasized the importance of effective public information management in promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance, as means of tackling false narratives.
The governor made this known while hosting the 48th National Council on Information and National Orientation in Kaduna.
The event, according to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, was the most successful in the last 15 years.
Governor Sani noted that information plays a vital role in a democracy, particularly in a pluralistic nation like Nigeria. He commended the theme of the meeting, “Enhancing Public Information Management for Inclusive Governance: Renewed Hope in Focus,” saying it reflects the commitment to a process-led and participatory approach to governance.
He expressed concern about elements working to derail Nigeria’s democracy, manipulating people, and creating disunity. He urged information managers to devise strategic communication strategies to counter these negative narratives.
The governor also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to revamp the economy, despite inheriting a near-comatose economy. He emphasized the need for information managers to effectively communicate the president’s reform agenda to the Nigerian people.
In Kaduna State, Governor Sani said they are making significant strides in promoting transparency and accountability through Nurturing Citizens Engagement. The state is implementing innovative solutions to enhance public information management, including involving civil society organizations in budget planning and using the “Eyes and Ears” citizen feedback app.
He also acknowledged challenges in ensuring public information is accessible, accurate, and timely, particularly with the advancement of digital technology and the digital divide. He urged information managers to develop policies promoting effective detection and prevention methods to mitigate these risks.
The 48th National Council on Information and National Orientation brought together information managers from across Nigeria to discuss and develop innovative solutions to challenges in information management. Governor Sani urged delegates to rededicate themselves to effective public information management for inclusive governance.
