This document discusses freedom of information (FOI) laws and their importance for transparency and accountability (ST&A). It begins by defining key terms like openness, freedom, information, accountability and transparency. It then discusses FOI in the global context, noting its basis in UN resolutions and international covenants protecting information access rights. The document outlines the legal frameworks regulating these rights. It also discusses Nigeria's FOI context, from its historical advocacy to its 2011 FOI Act. However, it notes FOI implementation faces challenges, from resource and awareness issues to limitations curtailing access and enforcement.