Journalists have been urged to go beyond reporting societal challenges by critically examining responses that are producing results and drawing attention to lessons that can be replicated to improve public health and strengthen accountability.
The charge was given at a solutions journalism training organised by MSI Nigeria Reproductive Choices and Nigeria Health Watch in collaboration with the Edo state government for journalists, including Blueprint newspaper reporter, drawn from the southern part of the country.
The 4-day capacity-building programme, holding in Benin City, focused on strengthening evidence-based reporting, rebuilding public confidence in the media and encouraging journalists to produce stories that investigate practical responses to societal problems, particularly in the health sector.
The Edo state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams-Oshiomhole, who declared the training open, said the role of journalism should extend beyond identifying problems and exposing failures to examining interventions that are making a difference.
He said: “Journalism has always been regarded as the fourth estate of the realm. It informs, educates, holds leaders accountable, and gives a voice to the voiceless. However, journalism should not only expose problems, it should also illuminate solutions.”
The commissioner noted that responsible reporting had remained an important factor in improving public health outcomes, adding that accurate information could influence public behaviour and support effective responses during health emergencies.
He commended MSI Nigeria and Nigeria Health Watch for investing in the professional development of journalists, noting that improved healthcare delivery required not only hospitals, medical equipment and medicines but also effective communication, public trust and informed decision-making.
The regional manager for the South-South and South-West at MSI Nigeria Reproductive Choices, Mrs. Omeche, underscored the need to sustain conversations around Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and family planning.