The federal government and the United Kingdom (UK) have called on the Nigerian media to adopt conflict-sensitive reporting as part of efforts to foster peace and stability in the livestock sector.
At a two-day media engagement workshop in Abuja, Dr. Adeniyi Adedoyin, who represented the minister of Livestock Development, said journalists have a crucial role in shaping public opinion and bridging community divides.
“Without peace, other pillars may not function optimally,” Adedoyin said. “You are being trained to communicate in ways that promote peaceful coexistence. We want you to be advocates of the ministry’s activities.”
The conflict adviser at the British High Commission, Pirmah Rimdans, described the media as “the voice of the people,” stressing that their reports directly influence public perception. She noted that peace was a “critical ingredient” for the success of Nigeria’s National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy.
“With growth in the livestock sector, stability and prosperity can reach all Nigerians. We need a shared understanding to move Nigeria forward,” Rimdans said.
Team leader of the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRiNG) Programme, Dr. Ukoha Ukiwo, cautioned that insensitive language could derail reform efforts.
“One wrong label killed an entire programme before it began. The media is key in shaping the agenda, narratives, and terms of reforms. Sensitive communication can make or break these initiatives,” Ukiwo recalled.
The workshop, organised in partnership with the British High Commission, is part of the ministry’s strategy to build public support for livestock sector reforms and reduce conflicts linked to the industry.
