The Federal Ministry of Information and Orientation disclosed this at a two-day training of media practitioners on ethical journalism and children’s rights in Ibadan, Oyo state, stressing that journalists played a critical role in shaping public understanding, influencing attitudes, and protecting the most vulnerable members of our society, particularly children, hence the collaboration with the media.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Ogbodo Nnam, said the expectation from the media was in the area of ethical reporting of child protection.

Nnam, represented by the Assistant Director/ Head, Child Rights Information Bureau of the ministry, Temitoye Falayi, said the training was designed to help in reflecting on the 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.”

He said, “The media holds immense power, the power to inform, to inspire, and to hold institutions accountable. But with that power comes a profound responsibility: to report with integrity, sensitivity, and respect for human dignity.

In her keynote address, the UNICEF Chief of Lagos Field Office, Celine Lafoucriere, noted that ethical reporting about children was imperative to ensure their rights were not compromised in pursuit of catchy headlines.

“At UNICEF, we believe that every child has the right to be seen, heard, and protected. Ethical reporting is not just a professional standard; but it is a moral imperative.

Read Also: Unicef Advocates Professionalism in Media To Shield Vulnerable Children

“Our expectation is clear, that you leave this training not only with new skills, but with a renewed commitment to uphold the highest standards of journalism, especially when it comes to children. We hope you will become champions of ethical reporting in your newsrooms and communities, setting an example for others to follow.”

Lafoucriere charged that the way we report on children today shapes the kind of society we build tomorrow. She said by choosing ethics, you choose protection, one choose dignity, and one chooses a better future for every child in Nigeria.

Source: Punch