Date: October 23, 2026
By Abraham Ovuoba
Media experts have called for responsible digital content production, stronger policies and intensified civic education to combat fake news, cyberbullying and insecurity in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The experts made the call at the 2026 Hybrid Interdisciplinary International Conference organised by the Department of Mass Communication, Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Abakaliki, on Thursday.
The Vice-Chancellor, represented by the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Professor Nkechi Emma-Echiegu, described digital technology as a vital tool for education, commerce, creativity and democratic participation, but warned that its misuse could undermine public trust and national security.
She noted that misinformation could fuel fear, distort public understanding and erode confidence in public institutions, urging stakeholders to develop practical solutions without compromising freedom of expression.
Delivering the keynote address, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of Gregory University, Uturu, Professor Uche Uwaoma, highlighted the dangers of digital content misuse, urging participants to channel emerging technologies towards national development rather than destructive ends.
Earlier, the Head of the Department, Dr Simon Nwankwo, said the conference reflected the department’s commitment to academic excellence, human capital development and community service.
Describing fake news as a growing global challenge, he stressed that nobody was immune to its consequences. He expressed optimism that the conference would strengthen collaboration among academics, media professionals and other stakeholders to develop practical solutions to emerging communication challenges.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Professor Ifeyinwa Nsude, expressed hope that the deliberations would generate fresh insights into digital content production, misinformation and cybersecurity.
A highlight of the conference was the presentation of merit awards to distinguished personalities, including Ebonyi State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Samson Chinedu Nwafor, Professor Grace Umezuruike, Mr Chukwuma Okorie, Dr Andrew Chibueze Elom and Prince Barrister Chinedu Augustine Uburu.
The conference was themed, “The Nigerian Frontier: Content, Policy and the Battle Against Fake News Pandemic, Insecurity and Cyber-Weaponry.”
