The Founder of LIDA Network, Irene David-Arinze, has said the growing insecurity and social tensions across parts of northern Nigeria informed the need to train journalists in responsible reporting and peacebuilding.
Irene David-Arinze, whose organisation serves as a local implementing partner for MICT on the GIZ-funded PEACECORE II project, stated this in an interview with newsmen during a media training session in Kaduna.
She explained that the initiative, themed “Media for Peace,” was designed to equip journalists with the skills to de-escalate tensions, particularly those linked to religious and ethnic conflicts in states such as Kaduna, Plateau and Adamawa.
According to her, the media plays a critical role in shaping public perception and can either inflame or reduce conflict, depending on how information is reported.
“We want to see how we can leverage the power of the media to douse tension, especially around religious issues and ethnic crises, and ultimately promote development and peacebuilding in our communities,” she said.
David-Arinze noted that the training focused on helping journalists identify and address misinformation, disinformation and malinformation, while discouraging sensational headlines that could trigger unrest.
“Some people only read headlines, so it is important that journalists are responsible in how they tell their stories. We expect more objective and balanced reporting as an outcome of this training,” she added.
She further disclosed that her session centred on communication for development and peacebuilding, urging journalists to critically assess their language and ensure neutrality in their reports.
“Journalists must be objective and not one-sided. The way stories are framed can influence how audiences perceive issues,” she said.
A total of 60 participants took part in the Kaduna training, comprising 30 professional journalists and 30 youth participants involved in media and content creation. The group included both early-career practitioners and veterans with decades of experience.
David-Arinze described the participants as highly receptive, noting that the training featured robust exchanges of ideas and practical learning.
She also called for stronger collaboration between journalists and the wider community, acknowledging the challenges media professionals face but encouraging them to remain committed to ethical standards and credible sourcing.
The PEACECORE II project aims to strengthen capacities for conflict transformation and support peaceful coexistence in vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
