NGO trains journalists on ethical reporting of tobacco harm reduction

A significant Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) Workshop was conducted for media professionals in Nigeria at the University of Calabar in Cross River State.

The workshop aimed to provide journalists with precise information to ensure responsible reporting on tobacco-related matters.

The workshop, facilitated by Molly Ogbodum, a board member of Students for Sensible Drug Policy International (SSDP), featured the launch of a toolkit containing scientific facts, ethical reporting standards, and guidance on safer nicotine products.

Ogbodum described the training as unique, noting that it was “the first-of-its-kind workshop in Nigeria and globally within the tobacco harm reduction space, particularly focused on engaging journalists.”

She explained that the programme was guided by a public health approach, treating drug use as a health issue rather than a stigma, and promoting the rights of people who use drugs. “This approach fosters decriminalization and harm reduction strategies to improve public health outcomes,” she said.

The initiative received support from Knowledge Action Change (KAC), a UK-based public health organization known for its global work in tobacco harm reduction through the Tobacco Harm Reduction Scholars Programme.

The workshop also featured an interactive session, where journalists discussed ethical reporting principles such as accuracy, balance, respect for dignity, and the promotion of informed choice.

Tobacco Harm Reduction seeks to minimize health risks from tobacco use, particularly for people who are unable or unwilling to quit nicotine. It encourages smokers to switch from high-risk products like cigarettes to lower-risk alternatives such as e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, or heated tobacco products.

Participants were advised to avoid one-sided narratives, use evidence-based messaging, and frame THR stories within a public health context. They were also urged to counter misinformation, humanise stories, and engage health professionals and policymakers in dialogue.

Ogbodum expressed optimism that the workshop would help reduce misinformation and encourage more balanced media coverage of tobacco issues in Nigeria.

“This initiative represents a significant step towards responsible reporting and better public understanding of harm reduction strategies,” she stated.

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