Varsity Vice-Chancellor advocates ethical use of AI, digital responsibility‎‎ in Nigeria

*Prof. Olufemi Peters, Vice-Chancellor, National Open University of Nigeria, urges consumers on the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence and stronger commitment to digital integrity in the country’s ecosystem

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

As the global world grapples with the rising challenges of information disorder, Prof. Olufemi Peters, ‎Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), has urged consumers on the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and stronger commitment to digital integrity.

ConsumerConnect reports ‎Peters mentioned this while welcoming participants to a recent symposium the NOUN hosted to mark the 2025 Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week, at the NOUN Conference Centre, Abuja, FCT.

‎The theme of this year’s commemoration of MIL was: “Promoting AI Adoption and Gratification through Media and Information Literacy”, in alliance with the global theme: “Minds Over AI”.

The event was part of global activities marking the 2025 Global Media and Information Literacy Week, in Abuja.

The Vice-Chancellor said NOUN’s hosting of the symposium had underscored Nigeria’s growing leadership in advancing inclusive and equitable access to media and information literacy education across Africa.

He also stated: ‎“We see this not merely as an institutional honour but as a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s leadership in advancing media and information literacy — in Africa and beyond.”

While AI has become central to human life, it also raises ethical and social questions requiring proactive learning and digital awareness, said Peters.

Nigeria, world’s largest solar panel manufacturer ink MoU for local production, job creation

‎Highlighting NOUN’s leadership in promoting responsible digital learning, the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN disclosed the University hosted the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) under the guidance of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

According to him, the IMILI is now in advanced stages of attaining UNESCO Category 2 status.

‎Peters stated that the milestone “signals that Africa is ready to lead, innovate, and shape the global dialogue on ethical AI and the future of learning.”

‎Speaking while declaring the symposium open, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Honourable Minister for Information and National Orientation, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to responsible communication and digital literacy.

‎Idris, represented by Barr. Henshaw Ogubike, said the Ministry of Information and National Orientation (FMIC) remained steadfast in promoting media and information environments that encourage truth, transparency, creativity, and national unity.

READ ALSO: US Envoy Speaks On Alleged Christian Genocide In Nigeria

‎TD Africa Onboards Zinox Technologies To Expand Bouquet Of Global Brands

CREDICORP Named ‘Credit Access Company Of The Year’ At BAFI Awards In Lagos

The Minister also averred: ‎“The Ministry of Information and National Orientation remains steadfast in promoting media and information environments that encourage truth, transparency, creativity, and national unity.

‎“Through collaboration with UNESCO, IMILI, and other partners, we continue to advance initiatives that enhance media literacy, counter misinformation, and encourage Nigerians to leverage digital tools for social and economic advancement.”

‎Dr. Jean-Paul Ngome Abiaga, ‎UNESCO’s Country Representative, represented by Ms. Yachat Nuhu, stressed that media and information literacy must evolve to address challenges, such as misinformation and deepfake technology.

In his remarks, Dr. Lateef Adelakun, ‎Acting IMILI Director, said the rise of AI adoption had made digital literacy more critical than ever.

‎Scholars, policymakers, and media stakeholders all attended the forum in the FCT.

Kindly Share This Story