UNICEF Pushes for Ethical Journalism to Safeguard Nigerian Children

By Diafa Doubra,

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has urged Nigerian journalists to embrace ethical standards in their reporting, particularly when covering stories involving children. The organisation stressed that the media plays a crucial role in shaping narratives and must ensure that vulnerable and traumatised children are not further exposed to harm through insensitive reporting.

Speaking at a workshop on child rights and media ethics, UNICEF officials noted that many children affected by conflict, abuse, or displacement often suffer secondary trauma when their stories are told without proper safeguards. They called on journalists to prioritize children’s dignity, protect their identities when necessary, and avoid sensationalism that could put them at risk.

The workshop, organised in partnership with relevant government agencies and media professionals, highlighted the importance of balancing the public’s right to information with the responsibility of protecting children’s rights. UNICEF also pledged continued support in training journalists and media houses to improve child-sensitive reporting across Nigeria.