The Chief of Party at Peace Action for Rapid and Transformative Nigerian Early Warning Response (PARTNER), Danjuma Dawop, emphasized the importance of journalists adapting to the evolving media landscape.
He stressed that traditional journalism methods have shifted with the rise of digital platforms.
During a Conflict-Sensitive Reporting workshop in Kaduna, Dawop highlighted the impact of digital media on journalism.
He noted that while traditional journalists once gathered information directly, digital media now allows anyone to share news, often without verification.
“In the past, people trusted journalists and esteemed the media as a source of reliable, verifiable news. But now, with social media, everyone can claim to be a journalist. The lack of regulation in social media makes it challenging for genuine journalists striving to share accurate information.”
Dawop expressed concerns about the credibility of news in the age of social media, where anyone can claim to be a journalist.
He emphasized the need for regulation to ensure the dissemination of accurate information.
The workshop focused on the theme of “Digital Peace-building Approach,” stressing the importance of understanding the risks associated with social media in conflict zones.
“We believe it’s crucial for media practitioners to understand the impact of social media on journalism and peace-building. Journalists serve as agents of peace, and through social media, they can disseminate information fostering unity among communities,” Dawop stressed.
Dawop emphasized the role of journalists in promoting unity and disseminating accurate information to mitigate conflict.
Steve Agbo, Coordinator of the PARTNER project, highlighted the project’s aim of promoting sustainable peace in Nigeria, particularly in nine intervention states.
He emphasized the importance of journalists in spreading awareness about the project and practicing conflict-sensitive reporting.
The consortium of PARTNER includes various organizations working towards peace-building in Nigeria.
Their intervention spans nine states, focusing on enhancing the Early Warning Early Response (EWER) system to address conflict.
