2011-01-01
The Freedom of Information Act, 2011, establishes a legal framework in Nigeria granting the public the right to access records and information held by public institutions, regardless of the applicant's specific interest. It mandates that public institutions maintain, organize, and proactively disclose information regarding their operations, while setting clear timelines and procedures for responding to information requests. The Act also defines specific exemptions to protect personal privacy, national security, and legal privileges, while providing judicial oversight and criminal penalties for the willful destruction or alteration of records.