The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), has charged Journalists in Plateau state to prioritise positive and impactful news reports in their reportage.
The Bauchi Field Officer Dr. Nuzhat Ragique in charge of Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba, Adamawa and Plateau Stated gave the charge during a media engagement with Journalists in Jos, the Plateau State Capital North Central Nigeria.
Emphasising the role of the media in shaping public perception and influencing behavioral change, Dr. Ragique reiterated that journalists are the backbone of every state.
“You are the voices and eyes of the people, capable of promoting good practices while discouraging harmful traditions that hinder children’s development and nutrition. Through your work, you can educate communities, spread awareness, and highlight success stories. “Said Mrs. Ragique.
She stressed Nigeria has one of the highest maternal and child mortality rates in Africa. Given its large population, the country contributes significantly to global maternal and child deaths.
“That is why I urge you to embrace positive journalism. Highlight the good work being done, the successful interventions, and the practices that need strengthening. When good practices are promoted, harmful traditions gradually fade away. She added.
Commending the State Government for their support, Dr, Ragique said she witnessed the highest level of dedication from the Plateau State Government,
“I am thoroughly impressed. We regularly analyse and compare states, though our primary focus has been on Bauchi, Taraba, and Adamawa due to their high levels of deprivation. Plateau and Taraba were already performing relatively well, but over time, they have made significant progress.
I congratulate His Excellency for funding nutrition projects and taking bold initiatives in primary healthcare, including the provision of skilled birth attendants and safe delivery kits.
These are efforts that have been challenging to implement even in our focus states. Yet, Plateau is taking the lead, demonstrating a commitment to improving the well-being of its people. I commend the State government and assure them of our full support. She added
Dr. Rafique further highlighted key areas of UNICEF intervention, which includes birth registration, immunisation, nutrition, water and sanitation, and education.
She emphasised the importance of immunisation, in eliminating zero-dose cases for children who have never received any vaccine since birth.
Earlier, UNICEF’s Communication and Advocacy Officer in Bauchi, Mr. Opeyemi Olagunju, emphasised the need for deliberate collaboration between the media and Fund so as to achieve the targeted advocacy on challenges facing children and women.
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