The Federal Government awarded Dr Brendan Usoro, Executive Chairman of Miden Systems Limited, for excellence in corporate governance and business integrity, while he warned that the rise of AI‑generated misinformation poses serious risks to enterprises, national security and the upcoming 2027 general elections. The ceremony took place at the Nigerian Press Council (NPC) during the National Summit on Curbing Fake News and Misinformation in the Nigerian Media Space in Abuja.
Usoro explained that the growing use of Artificial Intelligence to create fabricated audio, manipulate video footage and circulate false reports is making it increasingly hard for the public to separate truth from deception. He noted that misinformation now extends beyond political campaigns, becoming a weapon to tarnish corporate reputations, erode business confidence and stir social unrest.
> “People use false information to de‑market their political opponents, > competitors’ products and services, as well as create tension in the > polity,” Usoro said.
What are the implications for the 2027 elections?
Usoro cautioned that deepfakes and coordinated disinformation drives could sway voters, weaken public trust and undermine democratic institutions as the 2027 polls approach.
How can Nigerians safeguard against false content?
He urged citizens to verify information before sharing, recommending independent fact‑checking services such as Dubawa to confirm the authenticity of reports, images and videos.
Which agencies should act to curb synthetic media?
Usoro called on technology firms and regulators, including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to deepen collaboration in fighting malicious synthetic media.
Earlier in the summit, Dr Dili Ezughah, Executive Secretary and CEO of the NPC, highlighted that the gathering aimed to strengthen responsible journalism and boost the media sector’s capacity to combat misinformation ahead of the 2027 elections. The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, represented by Special Adviser on Intelligence Musa Likita, described fake news as a threat to national security and democratic governance. Likewise, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, represented by Dr Haruna Suleiman, called for tighter editorial oversight, swift correction of errors and enhanced media literacy to help citizens identify and reject falsehoods.
Other honorees at the event included Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, General Musa, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Barrister Obioma Akagburuonye, Senator Emmanuel Bwacha and Dr Yakubu Barde, Federal Commissioner for Salaries, Income and Wages.