Challenging misinformation and upholding the truth, the BO Foundation for Inclusive Media (BOFIM) has launched ‘The Verifiers,’ a dedicated network of fact-checkers and verification specialists in Nigeria.
The initiative, which aims to safeguard the truth and social cohesion, officially commenced on March 20 at White Plain Hall in Osogbo, Osun State, following an intensive three-month virtual training program.
Designed to empower journalists, human rights defenders, and disability rights advocates, the initiative provides participants with cutting-edge tools such as Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) and digital verification techniques. Through this hands-on training, attendees gained practical experience in tracking digital footprints, conducting deep verification, and detecting manipulated content to combat the spread of false information.
Speaking at the launch, BOFIM’s Executive Director, Blessing Oladunjoye, emphasized that the project is a collective commitment to truth, accountability, and inclusivity. She expressed gratitude to all contributors, from expert trainers to the dedicated participants who embarked on this transformative journey.
“Your dedication reaffirms our belief that together, we can make a difference. We are deeply grateful to WITNESS for their support, without which this initiative would not have been possible,” Oladunjoye stated.
Describing ‘The Verifiers’ as more than just a fact-checking network, she called it a movement that will reshape Nigeria’s information landscape. “The power to challenge falsehoods, restore trust, and protect the truth now rests in your hands,” she urged the cohorts.
Oladunjoye further charged the newly trained verification experts to actively counter false narratives that threaten democracy, human rights, and social inclusion. She highlighted the severe consequences of misinformation, particularly its impact on marginalized communities, including persons with disabilities.
“As we establish this community of verification experts across Southwest Nigeria, we are taking a critical step toward strengthening journalism’s integrity, countering misinformation, and equipping a new generation with the tools to dismantle false narratives,” she said.
Israel Olatunji, founder of ChatVE, encouraged participants to approach fact-checking with precision and diligence. He demonstrated techniques for detecting deep fakes and introduced ChatVE, an AI-powered chatbot designed to streamline real-time fact-checking and client engagement. He explained that the tool assigns unique digital fingerprints to debunked claims, preventing them from resurfacing online.
Additionally, data protection expert John Eromosele provided hands-on training on data security and IT skills essential for fact-checkers. He guided participants in using verification tools such as Yandex, TinEye, and reverse image search to authenticate digital content.
Oladunjoye concluded the event with a call to action, urging cohorts to uphold the values of accuracy, fairness, and inclusivity. “The fight against misinformation requires collective effort and unwavering dedication. Engage, learn rigorously, and collaborate passionately—we must stand together in the pursuit of truth,” she said.
With ‘The Verifiers’ now active, BOFIM’s initiative marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s fight against misinformation, setting the stage for a more informed and fact-based society.
