By Salihu Ali, Kano
In a move to foster inclusive digital empowerment, a non profit organisation, the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has successfully concluded a workshop for journalists with special needs in Kano State.
The training, held under CITAD’s Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) Digital Hub, brought together journalists from within and outside the state, equipping them with essential skills in digital journalism, artificial intelligence (AI), Canva design, digital rights, and data privacy — competencies increasingly vital in Nigeria’s fast-evolving media landscape.
Declaring the workshop open, CITAD Executive Director, Malam Yunusa Ya’u, represented by the organisation’s Communications Officer, Ali Sabo, said the initiative underscores CITAD’s nationwide commitment to ensuring that no journalist is left behind in the digital transformation era.
“We want every journalist in Nigeria, regardless of disability status, to have equal access to the tools shaping modern journalism,” he said.
“Digital inclusion must be a national priority because knowledge is only meaningful when everyone can access it.”
Sabo, who also facilitated sessions on digital rights and data protection, reminded participants of the increasing risks associated with digital reporting.
“Understanding digital safety is not optional; it is essential for every journalist in today’s Nigeria,” he noted.
Renowned media scholar, Dr. Bala Muhammad of Bayero University, Kano, urged participants to apply their new skills to raise the standards of journalism across the country.
“Training becomes meaningful only when it reflects in your output. Apply what you have learned and become ambassadors of digital professionalism,” he said.
Other facilitators included digital inclusion advocate Hamza Fagge and media innovation trainer Mubarak Shehu Dayyab, who guided participants through AI-assisted news production, Canva for journalism, and creative storytelling techniques for social media.
Fagge emphasised that technology must be accessible to all.
“Technology should be a bridge, not a barrier. Every citizen deserves equal access,” he said.
Dayyab encouraged journalists to embrace emerging tools to remain competitive in the industry.
“The Nigerian journalist of today must blend creativity with technology to stay relevant,” he stated.
Participants described the workshop as transformative and a major milestone in empowering journalists with disabilities nationwide.
A radio journalist, Ummasalma Idris Ibrahim said the training proved that disability is not a barrier to excellence.
“With the right tools, we can compete and excel like anyone else,” she said.
For Bashir Ali Haruna, the programme has significantly boosted his confidence and digital safety awareness.
Victoria Ibanga