NPJ Kaduna Extols Mercy Corps for Elevating Responsible Journalism

By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

The Network of Peace Journalists Kaduna (NPJ) extends its deepest gratitude to Mercy Corps for their pivotal role in organizing a transformative one-day training workshop on conflict-sensitive reporting for Nigerian media practitioners.

In a statement made available to the press at the end of the workshop, Ibrahima Yakubu, the team leader of Network of Peace Journalists Kaduna, expressed his happiness for organizing the workshop for journalists based in Kaduna.

Journalists from Radio, Television, Print, online media, photojournalists, and bloggers were trained on various ways of mitigating conflicts through their reportages.

As we reflect on the successful conclusion of this workshop, the NPJ Kaduna is filled with immense gratitude towards Mercy Corps for their steadfast commitment to fostering a culture of peace through responsible journalism.

Ibrahima stated, “The support and dedication demonstrated by Mercy Corps have profoundly impacted the landscape of media reporting in Nigeria.”

Guided by Mercy Corps, the workshop convened a diverse group of local and international journalists from media organizations across the nation in Kaduna. Through carefully curated sessions, journalists were equipped with essential tools and methodologies to navigate and mitigate conflicts while adhering to the principle of “DO NO HARM” in their reportage.

Mercy Corps’ vision and initiative in organizing this training have not only empowered Nigerian journalists but have also instilled a renewed sense of responsibility towards promoting peace and unity in the country. By emphasizing the importance of fostering peaceful coexistence among different faith-based organizations, Ibrahima pointed out that Mercy Corps has sparked a ripple effect of positive change within the media landscape in Nigeria.

Many topics on peacebuilding journalism were presented to strengthen the capacities of Nigerian journalists.

Furthermore, Mercy Corps’ dedication to addressing the evolving challenges posed by digital media is commendable. The workshop provided invaluable insights into digital peacebuilding strategies, equipping journalists with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of online reporting responsibly.

On behalf of the Network of Peace Journalists Kaduna, we extend our sincerest thanks to Mercy Corps for their invaluable contributions to peacebuilding journalism in Nigeria. Your unwavering support and dedication have not only enriched the professional development of journalists but have also played a pivotal role in fostering a more harmonious and inclusive society.

As we move forward, we remain committed to upholding the principles instilled during the workshop and leveraging our platforms to promote peace, understanding, and social cohesion.

We are profoundly grateful to Mercy Corps for their partnership and unwavering commitment to creating a more peaceful and equitable world.

Ibrahima Yakubu then thanked Danjuma Dawop, Chief of Party for Peace Action for Rapid and Transformative Nigerian Early Warning Response (PARTNER).

Danjuma emphasized the significance of the one-day Conflict-Sensitive Reporting workshop for media practitioners.

He highlighted the evolving landscape of journalism, particularly in the digital era, and underscored the importance of media practitioners in mitigating the negative impacts of social media on journalism and peace-building efforts.