Disinformation, ECOWAS Set up Coordinating Unit to Tackle Menace, Ensure Integrity and Credible information. By Raymond Enoch
In a bold step to defend West Africa’s information space from the growing threat of fake news, the ECOWAS Commission has launched a regional Mis/Disinformation Coordinating Unit. The initiative was unveiled yesterday during a high-level kick-off meeting in Abuja, spearheaded by the ECOWAS Directorate of Communication in partnership with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Media Foundation for West Africa.
Opening the event on behalf of ECOWAS Commission President H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, Mr. Jerome Boa, Director of External Relations, highlighted the importance of the initiative in fostering a “Commission-wide culture of truth, resilience, and responsiveness.” He emphasized that the new unit will serve as a strategic bulwark against the destabilizing effects of misinformation in the region.
Representing Germany, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy in Nigeria, Ms. Lea Smidt, reaffirmed Berlin’s unwavering support. “Through capacity-building, digital literacy campaigns, and innovative solutions, we are committed to helping ECOWAS build a stronger, more informed society,” she said.
The Mis/Disinformation Unit aims to unify efforts across ECOWAS departments to monitor, analyze, and counter disinformation, while also educating citizens and strengthening the media ecosystem.
This landmark initiative signals ECOWAS’ recognition of information integrity as a pillar of democratic resilience, regional peace, and social stability.
