By Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto
The Child Rights Information Bureau (CRIB) of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation in collaboration with United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) Monday commenced two day workshop for select journalists in Nigeria on Ethical Journalism and Child Rights Reporting.
Welcoming participants to the 2 day workshop in Kano, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry of information and national orientation Mr Ogbodo Chinasa represented by the CRIB Assistant Director/Head of Advocacy, Mr Temitoye Falayi
said the ministry remained appreciative of journalists in Nigeria for their continues reportage of matters affecting children
Falaye who submitted that the federal government want to see Nigerian children thrive in an environment that is safe for them, added that, journalists therefore have a critical role to play in safeguarding their rights.
Giving his keynote address, the Kano State UNICEF Chief of Field Office, Rahama Rihood Mohammed Farah, appreciated Journalists in Nigeria especially those in the Northwest for working in a complex enviroment and at a great personal risk towards informing the public, adding journalists roles are not just a job rather a vital service to democracy and community.
On why ethical reporting of children right matters, Rahama Rihood said, it build trust, heal division, protects the vulnerable as well as enhance credibility and professionalism.
He further maintained that by adhering to ethics, journalists have chosen to uphold truth, peace, protection and a better country.
Earlier, UNICEF had said the 2 day training will coach journalists to be responsible and utilize compelling storytelling techniques to advocate for children’s right without sensationalism and understand the unique challenges faced by children in different regions and contexts within Nigeria.
