Media as Voice for the Voiceless: NAWOJ, UNICEF Boost Child-Sensitive Reporting in Kaduna

Media as Voice for the Voiceless: NAWOJ, UNICEF Boost Child-Sensitive Reporting in Kaduna

By Zainab Tanimu

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund, has intensified efforts to strengthen child-sensitive media reporting through a capacity-building workshop for female journalists in Kaduna State.

The two-day training, held at the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services, Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria, brought together women journalists from across the state under the theme: “Strengthening Child-Sensitive Media Reporting: Empowering Women Journalists as Advocates for Children and Social Change.”

Participants were equipped with practical skills and ethical guidelines to improve reportage on issues affecting children, with emphasis on safeguarding their dignity and rights.

Central to the training was the principle of the best interest of the child, as enshrined in international frameworks such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Facilitators stressed that in all media coverage involving children—whether victims, witnesses, survivors, or accused persons—their physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing must take precedence over public interest or news value.

Journalists were urged to prioritize anonymity, avoid retraumatization—such as forcing interviews with vulnerable children—and refrain from using stigmatizing language or sensational reporting that could harm a child’s future.

Speaking during the session, UNICEF Child Protection Specialist, Wilfred Mamah, described the collaboration as innovative, noting the unique role women journalists play as both professionals and caregivers.

“You are drivers of change,” he said. “Your reports can challenge harmful social norms, amplify the voices of children, and promote accountability in society.”

He identified poverty, insecurity, and harmful cultural practices—such as early marriage and female genital mutilation—as major challenges affecting child rights. He further stressed the need for the media to confront these issues while upholding ethical standards.

Dr. Mamah also described the Kaduna State Child Welfare and Protection Law as “a strong and progressive legal framework” that prioritizes the wellbeing of the child and provides safeguards against abuse.

Also speaking, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Mayaki, represented by a ministry official, commended NAWOJ and UNICEF for organizing the training. He emphasized the critical role of journalists in protecting the dignity and future of children.

“We are not just reporting stories; we are guardians of the dignity, safety, and future of our children,” he said, urging participants to approach their work with empathy, ethics, and professionalism.

Earlier, the NAWOJ Kaduna State Chairperson, Safura Maidoki, highlighted the importance of responsible journalism in shaping narratives around child rights. She noted that media reports sometimes unintentionally violate children’s privacy, underscoring the need for specialized training.

She also called on government to ensure effective implementation of existing child protection laws.

The workshop featured presentations by experts and interactive sessions aimed at strengthening the capacity of journalists to serve as advocates for child rights and social change.

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