UNICEF Trains Journalists On Ethics Of Child Rights Reporting

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with Child Rights Information Bureau (CRIB) of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation on Monday trained journalists from Southwest Nigeria, including Edo and Delta States on Ethical Journalism and Child Rights Reporting.

Journalists drawn from print, broadcast and new media attended the training in Ibadan, Oyo State as part of moved to equip them with useful skills to report issues concerning children.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Mr Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam, represented by Assistant Director/ Head, Child Rights Information Bureau (CRIB) Mr. Falayi Temitoye said the training was designed to help journalists to reflect on the ethics of journalism.

He said the training aims to explore best practices for reporting on children’s issues, and strengthen their understanding of child rights as enshrined in national laws and international conventions.

The facilitators who are seasoned media and communication experts and trainers including Dr Geoffrey Njoku, Professor Charles Obot, Mr Jide Johnson and Lekan Sote took the participants through the ethical  journalism in line with global best practices, particularly on child rights reporting.

The UNICEF Chief of Lagos Field Office, Celine Lafoucriere, in her key keynote speech said the media is vital to the sustenance of democracy and the well-being of the people.

Celine insisted that every child has the right to be seen, heard, and protected and charged journalists to be professional in reporting children and portray them with dignity. She said children’s rights must never be compromised.

She urged journalists to uphold the highest standards of journalism, especially when it comes to children.

She said “Children are not miniature adults. They are still developing emotionally, mentally, and socially. When we report on children, especially those affected by violence, conflict, or abuse, we must do so with the utmost sensitivity. Ethical reporting means protecting their identities, avoiding sensationalism, and ensuring that their voices are heard in a safe and respectful way.

“Ethical journalism builds trust. In a world where misinformation spreads rapidly, your commitment to truth, fairness, and balance is what sets you apart. When you report responsibly, you become a trusted source of information. You help communities understand, heal, and grow.

“Ethical reporting shapes the future. The stories you tell influence how society sees its children, and how children see themselves. By choosing to report ethically, you are helping to build a Nigeria where every child is valued, protected, and given the opportunity to thrive.

Celine said the way the media report children today shapes their future and appealed to journalists to uphold ethics in reporting children to ensure a better future for every child in Nigeria.