2027: CCC raises alarm over misinformation risks
The Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) has expressed concern over the increasing spread of misinformation, rising political tension, and security-related narratives in Nigeria’s information space, warning that the trend could
- ...unveils Crisis Communication Hub
- From Juliana Agbo, Abuja
The Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) has expressed concern over the increasing spread of misinformation, rising political tension, and security-related narratives in Nigeria’s information space, warning that the trend could pose serious challenges as the country moves toward the 2027 general elections.
The organisation made this known in Abuja while presenting its latest media-analysis report and unveiling plans to establish a national Crisis Communication Hub (CCHub) aimed at improving coordinated information management during emergencies and national crises.
Speaking at a press briefing, the Chairman of the Centre, Major General Chris Olukolade (retd), said findings from the group’s recent media-monitoring exercise indicate a noticeable increase in discussions related to insecurity, political disagreements, and the circulation of misleading information, particularly across digital platforms.
Olukolade explained that the analysis was carried out using PRrev, an artificial intelligence-powered media monitoring and social-listening platform developed by Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR).
According to him, the tool tracked conversations on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, WhatsApp groups, online news sites, and forums used by Nigerians in the diaspora.
He noted that the review showed growing public anxiety about insecurity, dissatisfaction with leadership, and varying degrees of support for government policies. These sentiments, he added, are shaped by both verified reports and deliberately fabricated information spreading online.
The report also highlighted emerging concerns such as the rapid circulation of false claims, increasingly sophisticated forged documents, and politically driven disinformation as preparations gradually build toward the 2027 elections.
It further pointed out that private messaging platforms, particularly WhatsApp, have become key channels for the dissemination of misleading content, making verification and response more difficult.
Olukolade said gaps in official communication during crises, especially delayed or unclear statements from authorities, often create room for rumours and speculation to dominate public conversations.
If such trends persist, he warned, they could erode public confidence and affect national stability.
As part of measures to address the situation, the CCC announced plans to set up a Crisis Communication Hub (CCHub), which will operate as an independent platform bringing together multiple stakeholders to coordinate information management during emergencies.
According to him, the hub will focus on tracking and countering misinformation in real time, supporting communication responses across federal, state, and local levels, and strengthening public trust through timely and accurate information.
He clarified that the proposed hub is not intended to censor information but rather to serve as a collaborative platform linking government institutions, the media, civil society organisations, and technology partners.
Stakeholders expected to be part of the initiative include the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, the Nigeria Police Force, Defence Headquarters, the Department of State Services, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the National Emergency Management Agency, the Nigerian Union of Journalists, the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers and other civil society groups.
The centre also recommended faster and better-coordinated official communication during emergencies, stronger fact-checking systems, improved collaboration among relevant institutions and increased public awareness to help citizens recognise and resist misinformation.
With political activities gradually intensifying ahead of the 2027 elections, Olukolade stressed the importance of strengthening crisis-communication structures to safeguard public trust and national cohesion.
He reaffirmed that the CCC would continue to support initiatives that encourage accurate information, responsible communication, and unity across the country.
