Combatting Fake News in Nigeria: A Multifaceted Approach for Information Integrity and Societal Resilience

Abstract

In the digital era, 'fake news' is no longer limited to local stories, but this has become a global threat, that is undermining the credibility of information and distorting societies worldwide. This article uncovers the convoluted terrain of fake news that draws on its different manifestations, classifications, and motivations that are socio-political, cultural, and socio-economic in nature. In this regard, focusing on Nigeria, a country with high prevalence of fake news, this identifies the main factors that trigger its spread, which are media relevance, government manipulation, profit motives, and internet regulation. Considering that the multidimensional approach is applied, the paper suggests measures for the management and mitigation of the fake news, embracing technological, regulatory, and educational steps. Highlighting the necessity of media literacy, interaction with international organizations, and backing for traditional media, the paper stands for a collaborative operation aimed at promoting resilience to the covert spread of the fake news and creating a system of information that puts truth, transparency, and journalistic responsibility above any other considerations. Keywords: Fake news, Information Disorder, Media Literacy, Technological Intervention, Regulatory Measures, Global Perspectives, and the Nigerian media space.