TCI, DEVCOMS Urge Journalists to Embrace Innovation in Family Planning Reportage

By  Mohammed Suleiman, Dutse

A non-governmental organization, The Challenge Initiative TCI, in collaboration with the Development Communication Network DEVCOMS, has urged journalists to hold office holders accountable in making the availability of FP commodities and the prompt releases of funds for FP operational services in Jigawa State.

They are also urged to be focused and innovative in influencing public opinions on issues related to Family Planning reportage.

A representative of DEVCOMS, Mr. Onche Odeh, made the call during a Review Meeting with the Jigawa State Family Planning Media Focal Group held at the Manpower Development Institute, Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.

According to him, there is urgent need to raise awareness, amplify marginalized voices, hold office holders accountable, and influence public opinion.

He pointed out that, “Speaking repeatedly about myth and misconceptions, can become a reinforcement”.

“It needs to be dealt with carefully and in an appropriate way and its important to develop a core set of messages that are both compelling and easy to understand before communicating,”

Mr Onche Odeh further tasked the network of the journalist working in Family Planning, to write innovative stories for impact, bearing in mind their audience.

He also spoke on the effective use of data and statistics on Family Planning to generate quality stories.

Onche Odeh advised journalists to utilize social media and online platforms, such as blogs and online publications, to reach a wider audience.

He stated that social media is increasingly becoming a primary source of news and information hence the need for them to leverage it to their advantage by directly communicating their messages to their audience.