The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has urged journalists to protect children’s identities and adopt ethical, solution-focused approaches when reporting issues affecting them.
UNICEF Child Rights experts made the call during a two-day training on ethical reporting of children held in Port Harcourt. The workshop brought together editors, correspondents and media practitioners from print and broadcast organisations across nine states.
UNICEF Nigeria Communications Specialist, Ms Sussan Akila, warned that irresponsible reporting of child abuse, molestation and other forms of violence could expose victims to stigma, trauma and long-term social and psychological consequences. She urged journalists to prioritise children’s dignity and safety while ensuring that reports support access to justice.
Dr Geoffrey Njoku, a media consultant, highlighted protections provided under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and Nigeria’s Child Rights Act, 2003, which recognises anyone below 18 as a child and places their best interests at the centre of decisions affecting them.
Speakers at the training urged journalists to avoid identifying child victims, anonymise sensitive details and obtain appropriate consent where required. They also advised the media to focus on systemic issues and practical solutions rather than pity-driven coverage, stressing that responsible reporting can help protect vulnerable children and hold institutions accountable.
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