By Abiodun JIMOH
Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has reaffirmed the central role of information in journalism, saying improved knowledge of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act is crucial for strengthening public access to accurate and reliable data.
Speaking during a two-day FOI training for journalists and civil society organisations (CSOs) held on November 12 and 13, 2025, MRA’s Executive Director, Mr. Edetaen Ojo, said journalists cannot fulfil their mandate without a solid understanding of the tools that enable them to obtain information from government and other powerful institutions.
“Information is the core business of people working in the media,” Ojo said. “The FOI Act is a tool that empowers journalists to get information, enlighten the public, and help citizens understand what government is doing on their behalf.”
He added that strengthening the capacity of CSOs was equally important since they also engage widely with communities and contribute to public enlightenment.
The training featured multiple sessions, including an overview of the FOI Act, digital tools for data analysis, and the use of FOI in investigative journalism.
Facilitator Ayomide Eweje, who led three sessions, stressed the need for journalists and CSO representatives to upgrade their digital skills.
“The world has advanced beyond paper and pen. Journalists must remain relevant by using digital tools such as data analysis software, spreadsheets and AI,” she said. “Upskilling is necessary because the digital age demands faster, smarter and more efficient ways of gathering and verifying information.”
Participants were also trained on how to file FOI requests, analyse obtained data, and fact-check information using FOI-based methods.
MRA expressed hope that empowering these groups would help extend FOI awareness to the broader public, especially in the absence of strong government-led enlightenment campaigns.
