The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation has intensified efforts to strengthen ethical standards in journalism, particularly in the coverage of children’s issues, through a strategic collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

This initiative, as observed by The Guardian, was highlighted during a two day training session on Ethical Reporting and Child Rights Reporting hel in Gombe State, bringing together journalists, media professionals, and child rights advocates from across the states of the North-East region, including Plateau State.

Speaking, the Assistant Director and Head of the Child Rights Information Bureau (CRIB), Mr. Falayi Temitoye,

underscored the critical responsibility of the media in shaping public perception and safeguarding vulnerable populations.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam, Temitoye noted that the training serves as a platform to deepen understanding of ethical journalism and child rights protections.

“The media possesses immense power to inform, inspire, and hold institutions accountable. However, when it comes to reporting on children, that responsibility becomes even greater. Every image, every word, and every frame published can have lasting consequences on a child’s life, safety, and future,” he said.

He explained that the programme was designed to help participants reflect on ethical responsibilities, adopt best practices, and align reporting with national laws and international child rights conventions.

Activities at the training include case studies, open discussions, and experience-sharing sessions aimed at promoting responsible storytelling that protects children’s identities while amplifying their voices.

Temitoye urged participants to remain actively engaged, noting that ethical journalism must evolve alongside societal changes.

“Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to a media landscape that not only informs but also protects and empowers,” he added.

Also speaking, UNICEF Communications Specialist, Sussan Akila, emphasized the importance of responsible reporting, especially in crisis situations involving children. She warned that journalists operating in challenging environments must ensure their work does not further harm vulnerable victims.

“Ethical reporting is not only a professional duty but a humane obligation,” she stated, urging media practitioners to prioritize the dignity and protection of children in their coverage.

Other facilitators, including Dr. Geoffrey Njoku, Dr. Jide Johnson, Mr. Lanre Idowu, and Nansel Nimyel, echoed similar sentiments. They called on journalists to go beyond conventional reporting by reshaping narratives around children and safeguarding them from emotional and psychological harm.

The training forms part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry to promote responsible journalism and ensure that media coverage of children aligns with established ethical and legal standards in Nigeria.