Dr Austin Maho, a Media Expert and Public Affairs Analyst, has called on Nigerian media professionals to uphold objectivity and responsibility in their reporting on China, particularly in light of the growing prevalence of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation.
He made the remarks during a media parley focused on the outcomes of the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit held in Beijing from September 4-6, 2024.
The event, organized by the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria as part of the 2024 Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, took place at the Silk Road Restaurant in Abuja on Saturday, 14 September, and attracted a diverse audience, including academic scholars, foreign policy experts, media executives, and journalists.
Dr Maho highlighted the urgent need for responsible journalism in an era where fake news—misleading information presented as fact—has become increasingly rampant, often designed to deceive the public. He emphasized that misinformation not only misleads the public but also influences opinions and erodes trust in media institutions.
“A well-informed public is a powerful tool against fake news,” Dr. Maho said, advocating for adherence to journalistic ethics encompassing accuracy, balance, and clarity.
The scholar pointed out that China has become a particular target of misinformation, driven by global geopolitical tensions and media imperialism. He cited several false claims, including alleged forced organ harvesting, unfounded accusations of sending prisoners to Nigeria for labour, and exaggerated narratives surrounding military expansion and human rights abuses.
In contrast, Dr. Maho presented a counter-narrative, portraying China as a socialist state that has developed its own form of communism, shaped by its unique historical context. He noted that China stands as the second-largest economy in the world and has successfully lifted over 800 million people out of poverty, making significant contributions to the global reduction of poverty.
In response to the challenges posed by misinformation, Dr Maho welcomed a recent initiative by Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, which calls for enhanced collaboration between Chinese media and Nigerian outlets to combat fake news. This initiative was spotlighted during the unveiling of the documentary “Traverse China with Me,” produced in collaboration with the Nigerian Television Authority and the China Media Group.
“The media play a crucial role in shaping societal understanding and development,” Dr. Maho said. He urged journalists to prioritize accuracy and objectivity in their reporting, stressing the importance of fostering a community based on collaboration rather than suspicion.
As the battle against fake news intensifies, Dr. Maho reminded attendees of the necessity for critical thinking and media literacy, encouraging individuals to verify information through reputable sources.
“Let us inspire hope and foster collaboration for a shared future,” he added.
