Experts Call for Safer, Responsible Media Coverage of Children in Nigeria
The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation has ramped up its efforts to enhance ethical standards in journalism, with a particular focus on the coverage of children's issues. This initiative is being carried out through a strategic partnership with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). The collaboration was prominently featured during a two-day training session on Ethical Reporting and Child Rights Reporting held in Gombe State.
Training Session Details
The event brought together journalists, media professionals, and child rights advocates from various states in the North-East region, including Plateau State. The training aimed to provide a platform for deepening understanding of ethical journalism and child rights protections. Mr. Falayi Temitoye, the Assistant Director and Head of the Child Rights Information Bureau (CRIB), delivered remarks on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam.
Temitoye emphasized the critical responsibility of the media in shaping public perception and safeguarding vulnerable populations. He stated, "The media possesses immense power to inform, inspire, and hold institutions accountable. However, when it comes to reporting on children, that responsibility becomes even greater. Every image, every word, and every frame published can have lasting consequences on a child’s life, safety, and future."
Programme Objectives and Activities
The programme was specifically designed to help participants reflect on their ethical responsibilities, adopt best practices, and align their reporting with national laws and international child rights conventions. Activities at the training included:
- Case studies to analyze real-world scenarios
- Open discussions to foster dialogue on ethical dilemmas
- Experience-sharing sessions to promote responsible storytelling
These activities were aimed at protecting children's identities while amplifying their voices. Temitoye urged participants to remain actively engaged, noting that ethical journalism must evolve alongside societal changes. He added, "Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to a media landscape that not only informs but also protects and empowers."
UNICEF's Perspective
Sussan Akila, UNICEF Communications Specialist, also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of responsible reporting, especially in crisis situations involving children. She warned that journalists operating in challenging environments must ensure their work does not further harm vulnerable victims. Akila stated, "Ethical reporting is not only a professional duty but a humane obligation," urging media practitioners to prioritize the dignity and protection of children in their coverage.
Additional Facilitators' Insights
Other facilitators, including Dr. Geoffrey Njoku, Dr. Jide Johnson, Mr. Lanre Idowu, and Nansel Nimyel, echoed similar sentiments. They called on journalists to go beyond conventional reporting by reshaping narratives around children and safeguarding them from emotional and psychological harm. This collective effort underscores the need for a more compassionate and ethical approach to journalism.
Ongoing Efforts
The training forms part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry to promote responsible journalism and ensure that media coverage of children aligns with established ethical and legal standards in Nigeria. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of children through informed and sensitive media practices.
