The training, which began on Monday at Tahir Guest Palace, brought together media professionals from Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Sokoto, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In his keynote address, the Head of UNICEF’s Kano Field Office, Mr. Rahama Muhammad, underscored the importance of placing children’s rights and dignity at the centre of storytelling. He described ethical reporting of children as “a vital service to democracy and to the community,” warning that sensationalism often inflicts lasting harm on vulnerable minors.
“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,” Muhammad said.
He urged journalists to avoid publishing names, photographs, or other identifying details of children affected by conflict, violence, or abuse, stressing that such practices could retraumatise victims and stigmatise families. According to him, ethical reporting not only protects children but also builds trust, strengthens social cohesion, and enhances the credibility of the media in an era of misinformation.
Mr. Toye Falayi, Head of the Child Rights International Bureau at the Federal Ministry of Information, echoed these concerns in his welcome remarks. He encouraged participants to balance compelling storytelling with journalistic integrity, noting that the media has a critical role in safeguarding children’s rights and shaping public policy.
“This training is an opportunity to deepen understanding of child protection laws, ethical principles, and the specific vulnerabilities of children in Nigeria,” Falayi said, while acknowledging progress made in highlighting child welfare issues. He, however, stressed that “much more still needs to be done to ensure Nigerian children thrive in a safe and dignified environment.”
The workshop, which runs through Tuesday, features practical sessions on legal frameworks, professional standards, and case studies tailored to Nigeria’s diverse cultural and security landscape.
Stakeholders say the initiative marks another step in strengthening the role of the media as a partner in advancing child protection and ensuring responsible coverage in the digital age.