Writing by Safiyah Abdulkadir; Editing by Abubakar Hamza.
The Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kaduna State Chapter, in collaboration with UNICEF, has organised a two-day workshop to train women journalists on child-sensitive reporting.
The training, held at the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, brought together female journalists from across Kaduna State to strengthen reporting on issues affecting children.
Participants were equipped with skills to enhance advocacy for children’s rights, particularly in the areas of child protection, survival, and social development.
Speaking at the workshop, a UNICEF representative urged journalists to take the lead in amplifying the voices of vulnerable children and addressing harmful societal stereotypes.
Mamah, who represented UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office in Kaduna, described the situation of children in Nigeria as critical, citing multiple threats to their wellbeing.
He identified poverty, insecurity, and harmful socio-cultural practices as major challenges affecting children, and called on journalists to use their platforms to drive change.
“Many children are unable to speak out due to cultural restrictions. As journalists, you are in a position to amplify their voices and hold perpetrators accountable,” he said.
The workshop also highlighted the need for improved reporting on sensitive issues such as child abuse, crime, conflict, and disasters, with emphasis on protecting children’s identities and dignity.
Earlier, the Kaduna State Commissioner of Information, represented by Yunusa Muhammad, stressed the importance of adopting child-sensitive reporting, noting that journalists play a crucial role in safeguarding the dignity, safety, and future of every child.
