Responsible journalism key to tackling insecurity – NGE President

Eze Anaba, President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), has called on journalists to adhere to ethical standards, prioritize fact-checking, and shun sensationalism to effectively contribute to peacebuilding and national development. Anaba delivered these remarks during a symposium marking the 10th anniversary of The Academia Campus Journalists at the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta.

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Journalism and insecurity are deeply interconnected. The media can either contribute to insecurity through misinformation, sensationalism and irresponsible reporting, or help reduce insecurity through accurate, ethical and conflict-sensitive journalism.

Represented by Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji, founder of Penpushing Media, Anaba described the symposium's theme, "The Roles of Campus Journalists and Professionals in Promoting Peace and National Development," as timely. He emphasized that journalism plays a crucial role in addressing Nigeria's escalating security challenges through responsible and conflict-sensitive reporting.

Anaba explained that the media can either exacerbate insecurity through misinformation and irresponsible reporting or help mitigate it with accurate and ethical coverage. He warned that the way security-related issues are reported significantly influences public perception, trust in institutions, and the responses of governments and security agencies. Irresponsible reporting, he cautioned, can heighten tensions and create unnecessary panic.

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No nation can achieve sustainable development where insecurity persists. Investors are reluctant to invest, schools cannot function effectively, businesses struggle to survive, and employment opportunities diminish in an insecure environment.

Expressing concern over the rising insecurity around tertiary institutions, including kidnappings and cult violence, Anaba stressed the importance of responsible journalism in countering misinformation and preventing crisis escalation. He encouraged student journalists to promote civic education and amplify voices that foster dialogue and peaceful coexistence. Professional journalists, he reminded, must serve as impartial watchdogs committed to accountability and democratic governance, promoting peace by avoiding sensationalism and presenting balanced perspectives.

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Media professionals must promote peace by adopting conflict-sensitive reporting, avoiding sensationalism, presenting balanced perspectives and discouraging narratives that encourage hatred or violence.