News Editor
From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi
A Child and Media Development Advocate, Steve Aborisade has stated that journalists covering issues affecting children require special trainings and skills to avoid irreparable damages to the children in their reports.
Aborisade who stated this while addressing newsmen in Makurdi, said he has published a book to guide journalists reporting child related issues to help them understand better how to report issues affecting children.
He said as a media practitioner, he saw both the good and the bad sides of media reporting.
“In my experiences with Projekthope as well as Wole Soyinka Investigative Reporting Award (WSIRA) now Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), I have seen how crucial responsible storytelling is. I know how powerful the media can be in bringing attention to important issues and driving change. I have seen how the media can rally support for those who need it most.
“I have also seen how easily this power can be misused leading to the exploitation of children who cannot protect themselves.
“This work thus assumes that the media plays a huge role in shaping how we see things, and rightly so, especially when it comes to stories about children.”
While calling for support to change the narrative, Aborishade said “It is on this premise that this book builds on what I explored in my Master’s thesis at the University of Haifa, where I studied International MA Program in Child Development at the Faculty of Social Sciences, and looked at how issues of identity and trauma are presented, especially for those who are vulnerable.”
He said interested buyers can get the book here https://selar.com/7l1075 or call+234 7082615021.
Speaking about the book, “Covering Children: Guidelines for Journalists”, Mojúbàolú Olúfúnké Okome, Professor of Political Science, Brooklyn College, CUNY New York, said the book was necessitated by different challenges faced by journalists in reporting children.
She said the book serves as a guide for journalists on ethical reporting about children.
“It emphasizes responsible storytelling and considers the impact of media on children, who are seen as vulnerable due to their limited understanding of the consequences of media exposure.
“The guide advocates a trauma-informed approach, prioritizing the child’s well-being over the story. It also highlights the need to balance the public’s right to know with the protection of children’s privacy and dignity.”
Speaking further, she said children are vulnerable and may not fully understand the implications of media exposure. “They can be harmed, stigmatized, and exploited through irresponsible reporting. Maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of children is critical. This includes not disclosing identifying details and handling sensitive information with discretion. Journalists need to be aware of the long-term effects of media exposure on a child’s life.
“Therefore, journalists should avoid portraying children negatively and be aware of potential retribution or psychological harm due to their reporting.”
Similarly, Lanre Idowu, Founder-Trustee, Diamond Awards for Media Excellence Trust Fund, said
Aborisade deserves appreciation for mainstreaming the place of ethics as the oxygen that fuels individual and institutional credibility.
“Indeed, without public trust, journalism is no more than a dangerous, ego-tripping pastime. Contextualizing ethics in the way children issues are addressed indicates the author’s sensitivity to the place of the child in the orderly development of society.
Here’s a book stressing the child matters as a member of society and an agent of development with rights, who deserves attention, affection, and respect. It is a welcome resource that equally holds that good journalism matters; it certainly adds value to the wider discussion on the ends that media scrutiny and engagement should serve in society.”
Also speaking, Akin Jimoh, Executive Director, Development Communications Network; Chief Editor, Nature Africa, said the book is a must-read for ethical and impactful child-centric journalism.
“In a media landscape where children’s stories are hardly reported and are often shaped by adult voices, covering children challenges journalists and media organisations to rethink their approach.’’ “This book provides a roadmap for ethical, responsible, and compelling reporting that truly represents young lives.’’
“From navigating children’s rights and privacy to striking the balance between storytelling and advocacy, each chapter offers practical insights and real-world case studies. Whether you’re covering vulnerable groups, tackling ethical dilemmas, or adapting to digital journalism’s rapid pace, this guide pushes for a future where children are not just subjects—but active participants in the narratives that shape them.’’
“More than just a handbook, Covering Children: Guidelines for Journalists is a call to action: to tell stories that inform, inspire, and create real change with a culturally protective mien.”
On his part, Lekan Otufodunrin, Executive Director, Media Career Development Network, said, “As an advocate of ethical media practice, I find Covering Children: Guidelines for journalist as a very useful and practical guide for getting journalists not only to understand the intricacies involved in reporting children issues, but the need to be more professional, sensitive, thoughtful and compassionate.
“The book, with relevant insights, comprehensively underscores the need for child-centric journalism based on applying necessary skills to elevate reporting of children beyond the present level where many journalists unconsciously do irreparable damage to children through their reports.
“Journalists who need more explanation on the provision of the Code of ethics for journalists on covering of children and minors, that requires that they should not identify, either by name or picture, or interview children under the age of 16 who are involved in cases concerning sexual offences, crimes, rituals, or witchcraft whether as victims, witnesses, or defendants, will find this book very insightful.”
