UNICEF, Kano organise regional training on child-sensitive journalism

A regional workshop aimed at promoting ethical and child-sensitive journalism has commenced in Kano, bringing together journalists from across northern Nigeria.

The two-day training, organised by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Information, began on Monday at Tahir Guest Palace. Participants were drawn from Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Sokoto, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

In his keynote remarks, Mr Rahama Muhammad, Head of UNICEF’s Kano Field Office, described ethical child reporting as “a vital service to democracy and society,” urging journalists to place the welfare of children above sensational headlines.

“Ethical journalism builds trust, protects the vulnerable, and strengthens social cohesion,” Muhammad said.

“A sensational story about a child might attract attention today, but an ethical story protects that child’s future from shame and harm.”

He warned against disclosing the identities of minors affected by violence, abuse, or conflict, stressing that such exposure could re-traumatise victims, stigmatise families, and cause lasting harm.

Muhammad highlighted three core reasons to uphold ethical reporting on children: strengthening public trust, safeguarding the dignity and safety of minors, and enhancing media credibility in an age of misinformation.

He also called on journalists to support the enforcement of child protection laws, noting that individuals who share harmful content about children online risk prosecution.

Similarly, Mr Toye Falayi, Head of the Child Rights International Bureau (CRIB) at the Federal Ministry of Information, urged participants to balance impactful storytelling with responsibility and integrity.

“As journalists, you have a critical role in protecting children’s rights and influencing policies that affect them,” Falayi said.

“This workshop offers a chance to deepen understanding of child protection laws, ethical standards, and the unique vulnerabilities of Nigerian children.”

ALSO READ: FG, El-Rufai clash over payment of ransom to bandits

Falayi commended media professionals and child rights advocates for their ongoing efforts but noted that more still needs to be done to ensure that every Nigerian child thrives in safety and dignity.

The workshop continues on Tuesday with sessions on practical reporting techniques, legal frameworks, and professional standards for child-focused journalism within Nigeria’s complex security and cultural environment.