In order to sustain development through environmental reporting, Nigerian journalists have been advised to stress the urgency of climate change through their reporting.
Under the theme: “Achieving the SDGs: Strengthening Media Capacities for Effective Reportage,” a two-day advocacy training has held, with the objective to empower media professionals across the country to amplify issues surrounding climate adaptation and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Aligning with the International Day for Climate Action, the Sterling One Foundation, Microsoft Nigeria, Sterling Bank, The Sun Media, Oando Foundation, Coca-Cola and other private sector entities, joined forces in funds and other resources to showcase their commitment on SDGs to address the global challenges on climate change.
Alarming statistics from the United in Science report emphasize the need for action. Between 1970 and 2021, nearly 12,000 recorded disasters linked to extreme weather, climate and water-related incidents resulted in over two million casualties and a staggering $4.3trillion (about N3,461.50 zillion) in economic losses.
In the words of Sterling One Foundation (SOF), CEO, Mrs Olapeju Ibekwe, “we’re stressing the pivotal role of media advocacy in addressing the challenges posed by climate change. With only seven years remaining until 2030, complacency is not longer sustainable. It is imperative for the media to proactively address the urgency of climate change.”
The workshop, designed as a resolute call to action, provided a comprehensive training to over 100 journalists, with a specific focus on the northeastern region of the country. The two-day programme also delved into editorial issues, effective climate reporting, and the sustainable environmental practices.
Facilitators included Seun Akioye, executive director, Development Reporter, who expounded on “Effective Climate Change Reporting – Editorial Limitations and Solutions,” Victor Emeruwa, CEO, The Sun Media Foundation, “The Role of Media in Climate Action,” and Fidelis Mbah, Senior Journalist with Al Jazeera English TV, trained on “International Best Practices on Reporting Climate Change.
The trainers collectively instructed journalists to look deeply into issues, presenting them in an editorial context that enriches policy formations. They emphasize the importance of crafting engaging and compelling headlines that captivate readers without being dull or off-putting.
Furthermore, the trainers encouraged journalists to maintain a steady focus on climate change updates. This approach will enable them to sensitively communicate the latest trends and developments, fostering a heightened awareness that supports healthy adaptations and other crucial aspects.
Ola Williams, Microsoft Nigeria’s Country Manager, expressed satisfaction with the training’s achievement and its anticipated social impact, highlighting the company’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to drive the positive momentum in sustainability efforts and climate action.
She said: “Microsoft is committed to working with key stakeholders to escalate the importance of the climate crisis in Nigeria. This is why, by bringing together industry experts and thought leaders, we created a platform for fruitful discussions, knowledge sharing and strategic collaborations and this includes media professionals across the dais.”
Olapeju of SOF also highlighted that interventions such as climate action and other salient ones are paramount to their organisation and that is why priorities are being placed on partnership with other stakeholders as well as due collaborations with the media for the achievement of the SDGs in its programmes.
