Nigeria’s Minister of Information Mohammed Idris reaffirms the country’s commitment to two memoranda signed with the China Media Group. These agreements focus on enhancing media collaboration through information sharing and technology transfer, addressing misinformation, and promoting mutual investment. Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai emphasizes deepening ties under the strategic partnership established by the two nations.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation of Nigeria, Mohammed Idris, has underscored the nation’s resolve to effectively implement two memoranda of understanding (MoUs) recently signed with the China Media Group. These agreements were formalized during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing and are aimed at bolstering cooperation in the media sector between Nigeria and China.
During a recent courtesy visit by Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, Minister Idris emphasized that the MoUs focus on pertinent areas such as information sharing, content exchange, and technology transfer. He expressed confidence that these agreements would enhance Nigeria’s broadcasting capabilities while incorporating global best practices into the media landscape.
Minister Idris elaborated on Nigeria’s comprehensive relationship with China, having signed a total of approximately ten MoUs, of which two pertain to the information sector. He highlighted the strategic importance of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), as it serves over 200 million people across the continent, and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), both of which will significantly benefit from this partnership.
Furthermore, Idris articulated the necessity of implementing accurate information dissemination to strengthen ties between nations. He sought to partner with China in addressing issues of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation, which he acknowledged as global challenges requiring cooperative efforts for solutions.
The Minister expressed that under the current administration led by President Tinubu, Nigeria values press freedom as a fundamental policy for enhancing democracy through effective information dissemination. He indicated the commitment to preserving this freedom while recognizing occasional breaches that can be addressed collaboratively.
Ambassador Dunhai conveyed his determination to reinforce the existing ties between China and Nigeria. He remarked on the timely alliance with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at fostering national strength, aligning with China’s goals under President Xi Jinping’s leadership.
The Ambassador reiterated the agreement reached between Presidents Xi Jinping and Tinubu at FOCAC to elevate their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, marking the beginning of a new phase in their collaboration. He also communicated the commitment of President Xi Jinping to allocate $50 billion for investment in Africa over the next three years, as discussed in the signed MoUs.
In conclusion, Nigeria and China are reinforcing their partnership through significant agreements focused on media cooperation, combating misinformation, and promoting investment. The commitment to implement the memoranda between Nigeria’s public broadcasters and the China Media Group highlights both countries’ dedication to enhancing communication and fostering mutual growth. With cross-national initiatives aimed at strengthening press freedom and addressing global challenges, the collaborative efforts may pave the way for substantial developments in the media landscape and beyond.
Original Source: thewhistler.ng
