UNICEF, Borno Govt train journalists on role of media in social reintegration of repentant Boko Haram terrorists
By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
The United Nations Children’s Education Fund (UNICEF) and the Borno State Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement (MRRR) organized a one-day workshop for working journalists in Borno State on the role of the media in social reintegration of repentant Boko Haram terrorists and peacebuilding.
The event was held at the NUJ Press Center in Maiduguri on Monday.
In his opening remarks, Borno State Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Professor Mohammed Tar, commended the donors and organizers, describing the workshop as “apt and timely.”
He charged the media to continue their objective reportage and disseminate the Borno Model Concept of the government’s non-kinetic approach and successes recorded.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Alhaji Modu Mustapha,who represented the commissioner, urged the media to consolidate on the positive narrative of progress and development achieved by the government.
He assured the government’s willingness to deliver good governance and encourage bumper harvests through farming and other agricultural activities.
National Chairperson of NAWOJ, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim Kwayabura, enjoined journalists to live up to expectations and observe professional ethics in their responsibilities as peace builders.
She commended the donors and organizers and acknowledged the support and cooperation of Borno journalists in promoting social reintegration and peaceful coexistence.
The Borno State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Dauda Iliya, applauded the efforts and sacrifices of journalists in the state towards restoring peace.
He encouraged journalists to be steadfast and consolidate on the good job they have been doing professionally and solicited a harmonious working relationship with social media influencers.
Two veteran journalists, Alhaji Mohammed Alfa and Abdul Kareem Haruna, presented papers on the role of journalists in social reintegration and agenda setting for media in promoting social reintegration.
The workshop included paper presentations and group photographs