On September 3, 2026, the University of Lagos will become the epicenter for a vital conversation about the truth. The BBC World Service is bringing its “Trust is Earned” forum to Nigeria for a full day of collaborative exploration, aiming to tackle one of the most pervasive challenges of our digital age: the rise of disinformation. This isn’t just another conference; it is a dedicated space for journalists, educators, content creators, and tech innovators to gather and dissect how misinformation spreads and how we can effectively push back against it. By hosting this event at the heart of one of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions, the BBC is inviting the public to engage directly with the experts who are on the front lines of the information wars.
At the core of the event is a live, special recording of the BBC’s World Questions. Chaired by veteran broadcaster Jonny Dymond, this session will feature a diverse panel of prominent voices—ranging from seasoned business leaders and human rights activists to influential digital creators and journalists. Together, they will face questions from the audience, sparking a raw and necessary debate about the integrity of our information ecosystem. With the Nigerian elections on the horizon, the discussion will tackle the high-stakes reality of how fake news, propaganda, and political polarization can destabilize communities, and more importantly, how we can foster a more resilient public discourse.
Beyond the main stage, the day is packed with practical, hands-on experiences designed to demystify the mechanics of modern media. Attendees will be treated to an exclusive preview of the latest documentary from the BBC Eye investigative team, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how deep-dive journalism uncovers hidden truths. The schedule also includes deep-dive panels on the role of Artificial Intelligence. As AI becomes increasingly sophisticated, its ability to generate synthetic content poses a unique threat to democracy. These sessions will break down the evolving technology, moving beyond the jargon to explain what these shifts mean for the average person scrolling through their social media feed every day.
The “Trust is Earned” forum is designed to be more than just theoretical; it’s about giving you the tools to protect yourself. A significant portion of the day is dedicated to workshops led by BBC experts, focusing on Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT). You’ll learn how the pros verify claims, track evidence, and uncover the facts behind complex digital narratives. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply a curious citizen, these workshops are intended to equip you with the “digital literacy” skills necessary to navigate a cluttered, often deceptive media landscape with confidence and skepticism.
Fiona Crack, the Interim Global Director of BBC News, perfectly captures the urgency of this initiative: “Disinformation is the biggest challenge facing journalism in our time.” She emphasizes that the BBC’s responsibility extends beyond just being a source of reliable reporting; they have a duty to help audiences become better navigators of their own information environments. By sharing these methods and fostering a community of critical thinkers, the BBC hopes to create a ripple effect where the tools to identify falsehoods become second nature to everyone, ultimately weakening the power of those who seek to confuse or divide us.
If you are interested in attending, keep a close watch on the BBC Shows and Tours website. Tickets for this landmark event become available on August 14, and given the importance of the topic, they are expected to be in high demand. Refreshments will be provided throughout the day, ensuring that the environment remains as welcoming and collaborative as it is informative. As part of a larger global series—following an inaugural session in Sao Paulo—the Lagos forum represents a vital stop in the BBC’s commitment to truth. Join the conversation this September at the University of Lagos, and take the first step toward reclaiming trust in the digital age.