Nigeria, Türkiye Consider MoUs to Boost Broadcasting, Media Training and Information Exchange
Nigeria and Türkiye are considering stronger institutional partnerships in broadcasting, media training, content exchange and strategic communication as part of efforts to deepen bilateral relations and tackle the growing threat of misinformation.
The development followed a meeting between the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and Türkiye’s Head of the Directorate of Communications, Professor Burhanettin Duran, in Istanbul on Saturday.
The meeting was held on the sidelines of the TRT World Forum, where both countries explored opportunities for expanded cooperation in media development, cultural diplomacy and international communication.
Speaking during the engagement, Idris commended the Turkish Government for its invitation to Nigeria and acknowledged Türkiye’s increasing influence in Africa and its growing relationship with Nigeria.
He said the two countries shared common aspirations in promoting international peace, security, cultural understanding and economic advancement.
The Minister also praised the Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT) for strengthening its African operations, particularly through its Hausa-language service, engagement of Nigerian media practitioners and training programmes.
He recalled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Türkiye earlier in the year, describing it as an important step towards unlocking further opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation.
Addressing the challenges facing the global information space, Idris called for stronger collaboration between Nigeria and Türkiye to combat fake news, misinformation, disinformation and the misuse of artificial intelligence.
He noted that the growing threats could undermine public confidence, social stability and national and international security if not properly addressed.
Idris emphasised the need for responsible technological innovation, international cooperation and improved media literacy to strengthen society’s ability to identify and resist false information.
He equally drew attention to Nigeria’s hosting of the world’s first Category 2 International Media and Information Literacy Institute, which he said provides an important platform for international partnerships, professional training and efforts to counter disinformation.
The Minister invited Duran to visit Nigeria to consolidate the relationship and identify practical areas of collaboration.
Responding, the Turkish communications chief described Nigeria as a strategic partner with significant regional and international influence.
Duran expressed Türkiye’s willingness to expand cultural and professional exchanges with Nigeria, particularly through institutional cooperation in communication and broadcasting.
He specifically welcomed the possibility of establishing and activating Memoranda of Understanding between Turkish institutions and Nigeria’s public broadcasting organisations, including NTA, FRCN, NAN and VON.
He explained that the proposed agreements would create opportunities for content sharing, broadcasting partnerships, technical development and professional capacity building.
Duran also extended an invitation to Nigeria to attend the Sixth International Strategic Communication Summit, scheduled for January 2027 in Istanbul.
The summit will focus on strengthening international collaboration, improving coordination and developing effective strategic communication approaches to emerging global challenges.
The meeting ended with both countries reaffirming their commitment to sustained cooperation and stronger media and cultural partnerships in pursuit of global peace, security and development.
