By Joy Odor
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has called for credible and professional journalism as a cornerstone of national and global stability, warning against the dangers of misinformation and fake news in an increasingly interconnected world.
Speaking through Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Kabiru Abdullahi at the maiden Diplomatic/Security International Conference organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) in Abuja, the IGP emphasized the critical role of accurate reporting in preventing crises and safeguarding peace.
“Misinformation, disinformation, and fake news are crimes that should concern us all,” Egbetokun said. “The importance of credible information is crucial, especially in a world where a crisis in one country can ripple across borders.”
Citing Nigeria’s internal security challenges including banditry and kidnapping in the North and Central regions, armed violence in the South-South and South-West, and insurgency in the North-East—he noted the international implications of local conflicts.
“What happens in Nigeria is connected to what happens in our neighboring countries and beyond. A single piece of false information, even from thousands of miles away, can trigger unrest among unsuspecting populations,” he warned.
The high-level conference brought together diplomats, policymakers, media executives, and strategic stakeholders to examine the intersection of diplomacy, intelligence, and journalism in tackling today’s complex security threats.
Held under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event aligns with Nigeria’s 4Ds Foreign Policy Strategy—Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora Engagement—led by Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar.
Discussions focused on the growing threat of disinformation campaigns, their impact on public perception, and the importance of cross-sector collaboration to promote stability, security, and global cooperation.
One of the key highlights was the presentation of Merit-Based Excellence Awards to individuals and institutions recognized for their exceptional commitment to peace, security, and international cooperation.
“These awards are not just decorative,” said the DICAN Chairman. “They are a call to action—to redouble efforts in building responsible global partnerships and sustaining peace.”
Looking ahead, DICAN announced its upcoming Diplomatic/Trade, Investment, Business Networking Conference & Exhibition, set for October 28–29, 2025.
The event aimed to strengthen international trade relations and showcase Nigeria’s investment and tourism opportunities.
With rising global instability and the pervasive threat of disinformation, stakeholders reaffirmed their shared responsibility to uphold truth, transparency, and professional integrity in both media and diplomacy.
