COMMENTARY ON UNIVERSAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION: CREDIBLE COMMUNICATION KEY TO TRANSPARENT AND RESPONSIVE GOVERNANCE

By Lilian Ezejiegu

The Anambra State Government has emphasized the importance of accurate, timely and credible information in keeping citizens informed about policies, programmes, projects and opportunities that affect their lives.

The emphasis comes as the world marks International Day for Universal Access to Information on September 28, an observance promoting access to information as essential to development, democracy, equality and accountable governance.

The 2026 theme, “Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age,” highlights the importance of reliable information in addressing misinformation, disinformation and other challenges affecting public understanding and responsible communication.

For government, timely communication enables citizens to understand policies, programmes and development projects, while providing opportunities for communities to engage constructively with authorities and participate meaningfully in public affairs.

Access to credible information also promotes transparency and accountability, helping citizens understand government decisions and follow developments that affect their communities, livelihoods and opportunities.

In Anambra, government communication channels have an important responsibility to provide verified information clearly, promptly and through accessible platforms, ensuring that Ndi Anambra remain adequately informed about government activities.

The digital age has expanded access to information, but has also increased the speed at which misleading claims can spread, making verification and responsible information sharing increasingly important.

Government institutions, media professionals and citizens therefore have complementary roles in protecting information integrity by checking claims, relying on credible sources and sharing information responsibly across communities.

Universal access to credible information remains essential for transparent governance, public trust and meaningful participation, supporting informed citizens and contributing to Anambra State’s continued development and progress.

Lilian is of the ministry of information and value reformation, Anambra State.

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