The European Union’s Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Programme has introduced a new toolkit designed to support community radio professionals in ensuring fair, accurate, ethical, and inclusive reporting on electoral matters throughout Nigeria.
Titled “Doing Civic and Voter Education: A Toolkit for Community Radio Professionals in Nigeria,” the resource aims to empower community radio stations to engage with marginalized groups, including women, youth, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and persons with disabilities.
In a statement issued on Monday, the EU emphasized that the EU-SDGN programme promotes inclusive voter education, counters misinformation and hate speech, and ensures that all citizens, particularly those from marginalized groups, have a voice in the democratic process. The initiative also supports media literacy and offers fact-checking tools to help Nigerians identify credible information, enhancing democratic participation.
Akin Akingbulu, Executive Director of the Centre for Media and Society, discussed the toolkit’s significance, highlighting how it strengthens the capacity of Nigeria’s expanding community radio sector. “Community radio has grown significantly and is now an integral part of Nigeria’s broadcast diversity,” Akingbulu said. “One of the toolkit’s key focuses is addressing misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech—critical issues that can undermine the electoral process.”
He added that the toolkit provides practical advice on fact-checking, boosting digital literacy, and encouraging dialogue with local communities to combat harmful content. Akingbulu also noted that the toolkit enhances the quality and inclusiveness of civic education in Nigeria. “It empowers journalists to produce accurate, unbiased content while reinforcing the media’s role in informing the electorate. Through this project, the EU is helping to build a more inclusive society where citizens can actively engage in the democratic process.”
As Nigeria prepares for its upcoming elections, Akingbulu expressed optimism that the toolkit would have a lasting impact, fostering informed, responsible, and inclusive participation, ultimately strengthening the country’s democratic values. “This initiative ensures that no citizen is left uninformed or excluded from the electoral process, underscoring the essential role of the media in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future.”
