CJID CEO Dapo Olorunyomi Warns: Multiple Pipelines of Misinformation Worsen Nigeria’s Security Challenges

Published: November 24, 2025 | Learn how virtual misinformation is transforming Nigeria’s safety landscape, from bandit attacks to herder-farmer clashes, and why data control matters now.

Introduction

In an era where information spreads at lightning speed, misinformation in Nigeria has emerged as a critical threat to national security. Dapo Olorunyomi, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), delivered a stark warning during the 2025 Media and Development Conference in Abuja. He emphasized that Nigeria now grapples with “multiple pipelines of misinformation,” which are fueling instability and complicating safety efforts.

This conference, themed “Reimagining Democracy, Development, and Data for the Next Decade,” brought together journalists, policymakers, researchers, and civil society to address the intersection of media, technology, and governance in West Africa. Olorunyomi’s remarks underscore a pedagogical truth: understanding virtual misinformation safety threats is essential for safeguarding democracy and public order. This article breaks down his insights, providing clear explanations and actionable context for readers seeking to navigate Nigeria’s evolving information ecosystem.

Analysis

The Evolution of Misinformation Pipelines

Historically, misinformation in Nigeria flowed through singular channels, such as traditional media or word-of-mouth. Today, as Olorunyomi noted, the landscape features “three or four” pipelines, including social media platforms, messaging apps, and AI-generated content. This fragmentation makes it harder for government and security agencies to respond effectively, as false narratives propagate faster than fact-checks.

Pedagogically, consider misinformation as distorted data that misleads public perception. In Nigeria, it amplifies ethnic tensions, incites violence, and erodes trust in institutions. Olorunyomi described this as “one of the biggest things” the country must confront urgently, highlighting how virtual incorrect information turns digital rumors into real-world dangers.

Data Colonialism: A New Frontier of Concern

Olorunyomi introduced the concept of “data colonialism,” where African nations risk ceding control of their data to global big tech companies. He stated, “All the big tech companies… we’re just pawns in their hands now.” This refers to how platforms like Meta, Google, and others dominate data flows, often prioritizing profits over local sovereignty.

In educational terms, data colonialism mirrors historical resource extraction but in the digital realm. Nigerians generate vast data through online activity, yet foreign entities control algorithms, moderation, and monetization. Regaining control, Olorunyomi argued, is a top challenge for the decade ahead.

Link to Ongoing Security Crises

Nigeria’s security woes provide a stark backdrop. Bandit violence has intensified, becoming more lethal and widespread. Herder-farmer clashes persist in the North-Central region and beyond, resurging in early 2025. The Niger Delta sees rising criminality, while violent gangs operate in the South-South and South-West. In the South-East, Biafran secessionist activities continue, pitting armed groups against security forces.

West African governments struggle against violent extremism and online propaganda that spills into physical conflict. Misinformation exacerbates these by spreading unverified claims of attacks, fueling retaliatory cycles.

Summary

Dapo Olorunyomi’s CJID address at the Abuja conference pinpointed misinformation in Nigeria as a multiplier of security risks. From fragmented pipelines to data colonialism, these issues demand immediate action. The event fostered dialogue on reimagining media’s role in democracy and development, aligning with broader West African challenges.

Key Points

Practical Advice

Enhancing Digital Literacy

Media freedom advocates recommend bolstering virtual misinformation safety through widespread digital literacy programs. Teach citizens to verify sources: Check for primary evidence, cross-reference with reputable outlets, and use fact-checking tools like those from CJID or Africa Check.

Improving Institutional Transparency

Governments should prioritize transparent communication. Regular briefings on security incidents counter false narratives. Platforms can implement localized content moderation, trained on Nigerian contexts.

Building Data Sovereignty

Invest in local tech infrastructure. Policies mandating data localization—storing Nigerian user data within borders—empower control. Support indigenous platforms and train journalists in data journalism to reclaim narratives.

Community Engagement

Grassroots workshops in high-risk areas like the North-Central zone can demystify misinformation. Encourage reporting suspicious content via hotlines, fostering a culture of accountability.

Points of Caution

• Avoid knee-jerk reactions: Heavy-handed censorship risks undermining civil liberties, as warned by advocates.
• Fragmented responses fail: Coordinated efforts between tech firms, government, and media are essential.
• Over-reliance on big tech: Blind dependence invites data colonialism pitfalls.
• Regional spillover: Nigeria’s issues affect West Africa; isolationist approaches ignore cross-border propaganda.
• Sustained effort needed: One-off conferences won’t suffice; embed solutions in policy.

Comparison

Past vs. Present Misinformation Dynamics

In the past, Nigeria’s “one pipeline” of misinformation—mainly radio or print—allowed slower spread and easier rebuttals. Today, multi-pipeline systems (social media, WhatsApp, deepfakes) accelerate dissemination, as Olorunyomi contrasted.

Domestic vs. Global Influences

Local conflicts like herder-farmer clashes were once community-driven; now amplified by global platforms. Data colonialism adds an external layer, unlike historical media monopolies controlled domestically.

West Africa Context

Nigeria mirrors regional trends: Sahel extremism uses similar online tactics. However, Nigeria’s scale—population, diversity—makes it a hotspot, demanding tailored strategies.

Legal Implications

While no specific new laws were cited, media advocates stress balancing security with rights. Nigeria’s Constitution (Section 39) guarantees freedom of expression, cautioning against measures stifling dissent. Existing frameworks like the Cybercrimes Act (2015) address online falsehoods but face criticism for potential abuse. International standards, such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, urge proportionality. Olorunyomi’s call implies policy evolution toward data protection laws akin to Europe’s GDPR, without overreach.

Conclusion

Dapo Olorunyomi’s CJID warning illuminates how misinformation in Nigeria intertwines with security crises, from bandit violence to data colonialism. The 2025 conference signals a pivotal moment for reimagining roles in democracy. By prioritizing digital literacy, transparency, and sovereignty, Nigeria can mitigate these threats. This pedagogical overview equips readers to engage thoughtfully, turning awareness into action for a safer digital future.

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