Writing by Gambo Santos;Editing by Abubakar Hamza.
The Country Director of the Global Peace Foundation in Nigeria, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, has called on journalists to embrace peaceful and responsible reporting to support national unity and transformation.
Hayab made the call during an Iftar jointly organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nigeria Union of Journalists Kaduna State Council and the Global Peace Foundation in Kaduna.
Addressing journalists at the gathering, Hayab emphasized that the media plays a critical role in shaping public perception and influencing the direction of society, particularly in a diverse country like Nigeria.
He noted that journalists are not only reporters of events but also architects of public perception and facilitators of dialogue among different communities.
According to him, the nation’s ongoing journey toward stability, development and unity requires a media landscape that prioritizes peace, accuracy and responsibility.
“We live in times where information can either heal or hurt, unite or divide. The words we choose, the stories we tell and the angles we highlight can either fuel conflict or foster peace,” Hayab said.
He urged journalists to be committed on reporting with integrity by avoiding sensationalism capable of creating fear or deepening divisions in society.
Hayab also encouraged the media to amplify the voices of ordinary citizens by highlighting stories of resilience, cooperation and hope across communities.
The Country Director called on journalists to promote dialogue across ethnic, religious and political lines while maintaining the ethics and professionalism of the journalism profession, even in the face of pressure or provocation.
According to him the Global Peace Foundation believes strongly in the power of shared values and humanity, maintaining that the media remains a vital partner in building a culture of peace in the country.
“As we break the fast together, let this gathering be more than just a meal. Let it renew our collective commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and transformed Nigeria,” he added.
Hayab also prayed that the ongoing seasons of Ramadan and Lent would bring peace to homes, communities and the nation.
Gambo Santos.
