From Mike Tayese, Yenagoa

As part of it efforts to keep the Media Practitioners abreast with the day to day reportage of children rights and giving them voice in the society, a Two-Day Training of Media Practitioners on Ethical Journalism And Child Rights Reporting was put together by the United Nations Children Funds (UNICEF) in collaboration with the Child Rights Information Bureau (CRIB) of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation (NOA) to retrain journalists and media practitioners on child rights reporting.

The event which took place at Golden Tulip Dome Portharcourt in Rivers state had in attendance journalists and media practitioners from the North Central, South South and South East.

In his opening remark, the Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris Malagi said, media holds immense power in shapen the society, saying the media holds the power to inform, to inspire, and to hold institutions accountable.

The Minister who was represented by Falayi Temitoye an Assistant Director/ Head of the Child Rights Information Bureau, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation said, but with that power comes a profound responsibility to report with integrity, sensitivity, and respect for human dignity.”When it comes to stories involving children, that responsibility becomes even greater. Every image, every word, and every frame we publish can have lasting consequences on a child’s life, safety, and future”.

“Today’s session brings together journalists, media practitioners, and advocates who play a vital role in shaping public understanding, influencing attitudes, and protecting the most vulnerable members of our society — our children.

“This training is designed to help us reflect on our ethical obligations as journalists, explore best practices for reporting on children’s issues, and strengthen our understanding of child rights as enshrined in national laws and international conventions.

“Through open discussion, case studies, and shared experiences, we aim to build a media culture that protects children’s identities, amplifies their voices responsibly, and upholds the highest ethical standards.I encourage everyone to engage fully, ask questions, and challenge assumptions — because ethical journalism is not static; it evolves with society.

“Together, let’s reaffirm our commitment to a media landscape that not only informs but also protects and empowers”, he said

In his keynote address, Dr. Anslem Audu, Chief Field Office, UNICEF Port Harcourt said, the Power of Media in Shaping Children’s Lives cannot be overemphasized. He emphasized the critical role journalists play in shaping public perception and influencing the well-being of children in Nigeria.

According to him, the media has the power to amplify the voices of children, highlight their struggles, and bring attention to issues that affect their well-being. “However, with this power comes great responsibility. “The way we report on children, and their stories can have a lasting impact on their lives”. Why Ethical Reporting Matters, why does Ethical Reporting of children matter?Let me share a few reasons:The first reason is that Ethical Reporting Builds Trust and Heals Division.

” In a nation or society with diverse ethnicities, religions, and perspectives, the media is the glue that can hold people together—or the wedge that can drive them apart. Ethical journalism, characterized by accuracy, fairness, and balance, is the antidote to misinformation and hate speech.

” When you verify a fact before publishing, when you present multiple sides of a story, you are not just being professional; you are building a foundation of trust with your audience. In the fragile context of northwest Nigeria, where insecurity and tension exist, responsible reporting can cool tempers, promote dialogue, and foster peace.At the same time, Irresponsible reporting can inflame passions with devastating consequences.

“The 2nd reason is that Ethical Reporting Protects the Vulnerable, especially Children. This is a point close to my heart and the work of our organization. UNICEF!Children are not miniature adults. They are vulnerable, their minds are impressionable, and their futures are shaped by how we represent them.

“Ethical reporting means protecting their identity. It means never publishing a child’s name or image in a way that would stigmatize them, expose them to retaliation, or re-traumatize them—especially children affected by violence, conflict, or abuse. It means giving them a voice, not speaking for them. It involves interviewing children with dignity and consent, allowing them to share their experiences in a safe and respectful manner.

” It means prioritizing their best interests. A sensational headline about a child might sell newspapers, but an ethical story protects the child’s right to a future free from shame and harm. You are not just reporters; you are guardians of their dignity.Why do these ethical guidelines exist? They exist because we have seen damage when they are ignored

“A third reason is that Ethical Reporting Enhances Credibility and Professionalism. In an era of “social media chaos” where everyone is a “citizen journalist,” your professional ethics are what set you apart. They are your brand. Media houses and journalists known for their integrity have become the go-to sources for truth.

” They build a loyal audience that trusts them not to be swayed by political pressure, financial inducement, or tribal sentiment. This credibility is your most asset.I am not blind to the challenges you face. You operate under various pressures, security threats, and sometimes, immense political pressure.

“The temptation to sensationalize, to take shortcuts, or to bow to influence is real.But it is precisely because of these challenges that your ethical commitment to reporting, especially of children, matters more, not less. Your courage to report truthfully and fairly is a profound act of patriotism. UNICEF’s Commitment to Ethical Reporting. At UNICEF, we believe in the importance of ethical reporting on children.

“We work with journalists to:Build capacity: Provide training and resources to enhance knowledge and skills.Promote child-centered reporting: Encourage journalists to prioritize children’s perspectives and experiences.Support responsible reporting: Foster a culture of ethical reporting that prioritizes children’s well-being.Call to Action As journalists, you have a critical role in shaping the narrative on children’s issues.

“I urge you to:Prioritize children’s best interests: Ensure that your reporting does not harm or exploit children.Seek out diverse perspectives: Include children’s voices and experiences in your reporting.Report with empathy and accuracy: Balance your reporting with sensitivity and fact-based information.

“Therefore, as you engage in these two days of training, I urge you to see it not as a critique, but as an empowerment to:Be a stickler for fact-checking. In the race to break news, let accuracy be your compass. Always ask yourself: “Am I protecting the vulnerable in this story?” Let the best interests of the child be a non-negotiable principle. Balance your stories. Seek out multiple perspectives to give your audience a complete picture. Hold each other accountable. Champion ethics within your newsrooms and among your peers.

“Ethical reporting on children is not just a moral imperative; it’s a professional obligation. By working together, we can create a safer, more supportive environment for Nigeria’s children to thrive.Thank you for your dedication to responsible journalism. I look forward to our discussions and collaborations in the days ahead”.

From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has stepped up its monitoring efforts for the ongoing Integrated Measles Rubella (MR) Vaccination campaign in Kogi State.

Led by the Executive Director, Dr Muyi Aina, a national team visited Kogi State on a day-five monitoring and supportive supervision exercise to assess the campaign’s progress.

During the visit to PHC in Usiodumi Chikara North, Kogi LGA, Dr Aina expressed satisfaction with the State’s mobilization efforts, noting that the community was well-informed about the campaign.

He interacted with caregivers, assessing their awareness and understanding of the MR vaccination, and commended the state team for their efforts.

The NPHCDA ED stressed that the campaign seeks to strengthen collaboration between national and state health authorities toward achieving better health outcomes for all children.

Dr Aina commended the dedication of frontline health workers for their commitment to service delivery, and urged them to remain accurate and transparent in data reporting, regardless of whether targets are achieved.

In a remarkable display of compassion, Dr Aina encountered a critically ill boy at Chikara Primary Health Centre and promptly directed that the child be referred to SHIFAAH Hospital for free treatment, covering the medical expenses personally.

This gesture underscores the NPHCDA’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of children in Kogi State.

Dr Aina assured the team that the NPHCDA would address human resource issues affecting Primary Health Care (PHC) delivery in the state.

The Executive Director, Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA), Dr. Muazu Musa Omeiza, appreciated the NPHCDA team for their visit and pledged to intensify efforts in ensuring Kogi State’s success in primary healthcare delivery.

The Integrated Measles-Rubella (MR) campaign, launched by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo on October 6, is aimed at Immunizing children against measles and rubella, and Strengthen defense against polio virus resurgence

It is also aimed at introducing HPV vaccine for girls aged 9-14 to prevent cervical cancer, and Revitalize routine immunization system

The campaign, which will run from October 6 to 15, targets 1.9 million children in Kogi State.

With this initiative, the Kogi State government demonstrates its commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its citizens, particularly children and adolescents.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume has urged Nigerians to end the culture of silence and stigma surrounding breast cancer.

Akume made the call at the weekend in Abuja at the launch of the Mariam-Atswandeh Cancer Support Foundation (MACSF) and a Breast Cancer Awareness Symposium.

The event, with the theme ‘From Awareness to Action: Building Resilient Communities Against Cancer,’ highlighted the need for early detection and community engagement.

Represented by Francis Ikyenge, Director in the SGF’s office, Akume said awareness and education were key to reducing breast cancer cases and deaths.

 “We must break the culture of silence and stigma.

He added that survivors and patients required not only medical care but also emotional, financial and social support.

Akume noted that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, prioritised cancer prevention, early detection and treatment.

“We are expanding screening programmes, improving radiotherapy and chemotherapy access, and working with partners to reduce patients’ financial burdens,” he said.

He stressed that partnerships with organisations such as MACSF, civil society, faith-based groups and the private sector were essential to making progress.

The SGF commended the foundation for blending awareness, advocacy and direct support in line with the government’s vision of a healthier population.

Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, represented by Dr Uche Nwokwu, National Coordinator, National Cancer Control Programme, urged screening organisations to provide follow-up care for diagnosed patients.

He warned that some patients die not from cancer itself, but from the psychological trauma that follows a diagnosis.

WHO Team Lead for Disease Prevention and Control, Dr. Mya Ngon, said the MACS Foundation’s establishment showed growing community resolve against breast cancer.

She added that public awareness and early detection were vital to ensuring no woman was left behind due to lack of access or information.

The Imo governor’s wife, Chioma Uzodimma, represented by Mrs Adaora Iwuanyanwu, said the foundation’s launch was timely and impactful.

“Awareness alone is not enough; we must act with urgency, compassion and collaboration,” she said.

She was represented by Mrs Adaora Iwuanyanwu, wife of the deputy speaker of the Imo house of assembly.

Uzodimma, who chairs First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), pledged to work with the foundation to expand screening and reduce stigma.

Convener of the foundation, Mariam Salami, a breast cancer survivor, encouraged patients to seek help and not isolate themselves.

 “Cancer does not have the final word. Early detection saves lives, and no one should face cancer alone,” she said.

Salami said the foundation conducts outreach in hospitals, schools and markets to promote early detection and break cultural barriers.

According to GLOBOCAN 2022, Nigeria recorded 32,278 new breast cancer cases and 16,332 deaths, while Africa had over 198,000 new cases and 91,000 deaths.

Globally, breast cancer accounted for about 2.3 million new cases and 666,000 deaths, representing nearly 24 per cent of all female cancers.

October is commemorated globally as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

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