By Ruth Oginyi
In its avowed determination to bringing an end to violence against women in Nigeria, the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation(UNESCO) has trained journalists from five states of the federation and FCT Abuja on investigative reporting and Gender Based Violence in the country.
The training is part of efforts by the European Union and United Nations Spotlight Initiative in exposing the growing violence against women in the country.
The training tagged, “Sensitive Reporting and Investigative Journalism on Gender Based Violence” was held in Lagos.
Speaking at the program, a University Don, Dr. Franca Attoh said journalism should be a veritable tool to impel development as journalists are watch dog that protects the citizenry from the antics of politician in the society.
Speaking on the topic ” Journalism, Development and Ethical Issues, Dr. Franca, an Associate professor , Department of Sociology, faculty of social sciences University of Lagos, noted that journalists need to be creative in the midst of challenges in order to overcome the hurdles in the profession stressing that the society looks forward to the media reportage for positive change.
The Chairman Nigeria Union of Journalists, Lagos State, Dr. Qasim Akinreti in a remark, noted that media in Nigeria focuses more on National issues such as politics and urged journalists to bring in full developmental journalism by redirecting their reportage to communities and human interest issues.
Adeola Ekine, Chairperson, NAWOJ, Lagos State Chapter in her remarks, urged UNESCO not to relent in its effort to support issues that affects women and girls because we are the nation builders.
“It is with pleasure that I received the invite on behalf of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ),Lagos chapter to partake in this illuminating and instructive workshop that seeks to proffer solutions to Violence Against Women and Girls and Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.
“I appreciate the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation(UNESCO) for organising such forum to increase more awareness and promote the activeness of journalists on the thrust of the workshop ; which is Sensitive Investigative journalism on gender – sensitive reportage towards reducing or possibly eradicating the menace.
“I am optimistic that the knowledge that would be derived from the workshop would equip and enable the participants who happens to be members of the forth estate of the realm and agenda setters to champion constructive reports and editorials that would propel legislation that increases the access of women and girls to sexual reproductive health and rights and also eliminate violence against women.
“NAWOJ, as the female wing of the journalists union promises her unflinching support for UNESCO and other relevant bodies to fight against the cankerworm bedevilling our sisters, mothers and girlchild.”
