By Tony Adibe
Preparations have reached an advanced stage as the Nigerian Press Council (NPC) is set to hold its 2026 National Summit on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, at the prestigious Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.
Themed “Curbing Fake News and Misinformation in the Nigerian Media Space,” the summit couldn’t have been more apt in view of the negative impact of fake news and disinformation in Nigeria’s socio-political space, the NPC said.
A press release issued by the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NPC, Dr. Dili Ezughah, indicated that the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, will serve as the Chief Host, while the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, will serve as Chairman of the occasion.
Other dignitaries expected at the event include state governors, ministers and critical stakeholders, Ezughah said.
According to the NPC Executive Secretary, a well-known philanthropist and political heavyweight, Chief Barrister Success Obioma Akagburuonye will deliver the keynote address, while Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (Rtd) is expected to deliver a lecture on the dangers of fake news and misinformation at the event.
Ezughah said that the summit “is designed to bring together media professionals, policymakers, government officials, electoral officers, security agencies, academics, civil society organisations, women and youth groups as well as other stakeholders to critically examine the growing challenges posed by fake news and misinformation including their implications for journalism, democratic governance and national development.”
The NPC said that the rapid expansion of digital and social media platforms has increased the speed and reach of information dissemination, making it imperative for stakeholders to strengthen mechanisms for information verification and promote responsible and ethical media practice.
The summit will focus on critical issues including ethical journalism, fact-checking, media accountability, responsible use of digital platforms and the restoration of public trust in the media. It is also expected to generate practical recommendations and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders towards curbing the spread of false and misleading information in Nigeria.
NPC said that a major highlight of the summit will be the Nigerian Press Council National Awards, which will recognise distinguished personalities who have demonstrated excellence, leadership and significant contributions to national development across various sectors, including governance, entrepreneurship, journalism and media practice, academia and the entertainment industry.
According to the NPC, the distinguished awardees include the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, who will be honoured with the Best Performing Governor of the Year Award for his outstanding leadership, commitment to good governance and contributions to the development of Imo State and Nigeria, including his support for the growth and development of the media and promotion of effective public communication.
The recognition reflects the NPC’s appreciation of efforts that promote constructive engagement between government and the media, strengthen access to information and contribute to an environment conducive to responsible and professional journalism.
Ezughah said the summit and awards would provide an important platform for stakeholders to engage in the challenges confronting the media while celebrating individuals whose achievements continue to contribute to national development. He noted that the NPC remained committed to “promoting ethical journalism, professionalism, accountability and public confidence in the Nigerian media, while encouraging excellence across sectors that contribute to the growth and development of the nation.”
The NPC invites members of the media, government, academia, the private sector, civil society and other stakeholders to participate in the summit and join in advancing the cause of a more credible, ethical and responsible Nigerian media.
