By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
As part of efforts to promote gender equity and give voice to marginalized groups, journalists in Plateau State have been urged to embrace gender-sensitive storytelling and actively challenge harmful cultural norms that perpetuate discrimination.
The call was made during a one-day training on gender-sensitive reporting held in Jos, where key stakeholders emphasized the role of the media in shaping public perception and driving social change.
Speaking at the event, the Acting Chairperson of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, Barrister Olivia Dazyam, stressed the need for ethical, accurate and empathetic coverage of issues affecting women, girls, and other vulnerable populations.
She stated “This training speaks to the fact that we can do more for the people of Plateau State together. The choice of topic and sub-topics is such that will galvanize you to highlight the experiences of women, girls, and other marginalized groups,”
“What you report out there must capture the true essence of what Plateau women, girls, and children are facing.”
Dazyam noted that Plateau has one of the worst records for gender-based violence and weak child protection structures. She stressed that accurate, ethical journalism could shift public consciousness and begin to change the narrative.
“I must tell you that since we started, my team and I have been passionately committed to creating the right atmosphere for all citizens to thrive,” she added. “Our children are getting stranded daily in other cities and beyond. The question is: how can the Commission, working with the NUJ, change this?”
Also speaking at the event, Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Caroline Dafur, urged journalists to go beyond routine reporting and adopt a rights-based approach to gender issues. She described media professionals as vital partners in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence.
“If people, especially in rural areas, are not properly informed, many may not even know they have rights let alone how to protect or claim them,” she said. “Gone are the days when victims’ rights were violated and nothing could be done. Today, help is available right here in Jos thanks to the commitment of His Excellency, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang.”
Reaffirming the support of the media community, Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, urged journalists to challenge gender stereotypes and foster inclusive reporting.
“As journalists, we are storytellers. And we must ensure our stories uplift rather than harm; that they recognize inequalities and promote fairness and human rights.Let us adopt editorial policies that embrace equality. Gender equity is a development issue, not just a women’s issue—and we are 100% invested in it.” She emphasized.
Director of Information at the Commission and outgoing Chairperson of NAWOJ in the state, Mrs.Nene Dung, who facilitated the training, called on reporters to interrogate the root causes of gender inequality and go beyond surface-level headlines.
“This is our moment to do better, think clearer, and report more intentionally for the good of our society and the integrity of our profession,” she said.
The training featured paper presentations on critical themes such as “ Understanding Gender Sensitivity and Inclusive Language” by peacebuilding expert Dr. Prince Charles Dickson; “ Ethical Guidelines for Reporting Gender-Based Violence” by media consultant Jummai Madaki; and “ Gender Stereotypes and Media Bias” by Associate Professor Dr. Plangsat Dayil of the University of Jos.
Participants were equipped with tools for trauma-aware interviewing, ethical reporting, and using inclusive language that advances justice and dignity in media narratives.
