By Onomiguren Agbamu
A non-governmental organization, Search for Common Ground, with funding support from the European Union (EU), has trained over 30 journalists from both the conventional and news media on conflict sensitivity reporting.
The 3-day capacity training, themed “A Community Centre Approach to Transforming Criminality and Violence in the Niger Delta,” held at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Asaba, focused on equipping journalists with necessary skills in conflict sensitivity, cultural awareness, inclusive community programming, and digital peacebuilding.
Addressing journalists at the close of the training, the Media, and Information Management Coordinator of Search for Common Ground, Mr. Sunny Dada, disclosed that the initiative was borne out of the recognition of journalists as nation builders and critical stakeholders in the Niger Delta.
He noted that the training seeks to empower journalists to produce reports that attract investors to the region rather than driving them away.
He explained that “journalists are the fourth estate of the realm, and it is expedient that their capacity is strengthened in conflict sensitivity and inclusive programming.”
He said participants were exposed to the concept of digital peacebuilding and social listening to help them identify and counter online conflict drivers such as hate speech and fake news.
Dada noted that post-training assessments had already shown significant improvement in the capacity of the journalists, describing the experience as rewarding.
Some participants who spoke to journalists at the end of training said the training was timely and have learned how to approach sensitive stories without escalating tensions.
Adding that the sessions on digital peacebuilding were particularly eye-opening because they showed us how to respond responsibly to online conflict drivers.
Others said the programme had enhanced their skills in cultural sensitivity and inclusive programming, especially in practical tools to ensure stories contribute to peace rather than conflict.
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