In a bold move to promote ethical, accurate, and inclusive election reporting, the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Programme has launched a powerful media toolkit designed to equip community radio professionals with the skills to engage voters responsibly.
Titled “Doing Civic and Voter Education: A Toolkit for Community Radio Professionals in Nigeria,” the resource is set to empower grassroots media to amplify the voices of marginalized groups, including women, youth, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Beyond enhancing inclusive voter education, the EU-SDGN initiative tackles the growing threats of misinformation and hate speech. It provides journalists with strategies to fact-check content, uphold ethical standards, and ensure all Nigerians have access to reliable information during elections.
Recognizing the rapid expansion of community radio in Nigeria, Akin Akingbulu, Executive Director of the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), emphasized the toolkit’s vital role in strengthening democracy.
“Community radio has grown significantly and is now a key player in Nigeria’s diverse media landscape. This toolkit highlights the critical need to combat misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech—factors that can severely undermine elections,” Akingbulu stated.
He noted that the toolkit provides practical guidance on fact-checking, digital literacy, and fostering constructive dialogue within communities to curb the spread of harmful content.
More than just a media guide, the toolkit is a powerful instrument for shaping an informed electorate. By equipping journalists with the tools to produce unbiased, fact-based reporting, it reinforces the media’s role as a pillar of democracy.
“This initiative ensures that no citizen is left uninformed or excluded from the electoral process,” Akingbulu added.
As Nigeria gears up for its next elections, the toolkit is expected to have a lasting impact, driving responsible, inclusive, and informed civic participation. By empowering journalists and community radio stations, the EU-SDGN programme is laying the groundwork for a stronger, more inclusive democracy.
Ultimately, this initiative serves as a powerful reminder of the media’s essential role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future—one where every voice counts, and no one is left behind.
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