The Kano State House of Assembly (KNHA) has organised a one-day workshop for journalists covering its activities to strengthen legislative reporting and promote transparency, accountability, and democratic governance.

Speaking at the opening of the workshop on Friday, the Speaker of the House, Jibril Falgore, said the training was aimed at equipping reporters with the skills and knowledge necessary for accurate and effective coverage of legislative processes.

Represented by the chairman of the House Committee on Information, Shuaibu Rabiu, Mr Falgore highlighted the critical role of the media in sustaining democracy.

He described the training as timely and necessary, noting that legislative processes often involve complex procedures, rules, and deliberations that require proper understanding for accurate reporting.

“The media, as the fourth estate, serves as a bridge between the legislature and the citizens. Your work ensures transparency, accountability, and public enlightenment principles fundamental to democratic governance,” he said.

He stated that the workshop also aims to deepen journalists’ understanding of legislative reporting, improve professional engagement, and guide reporters on effective mechanisms that support transparency and accountability.

The clerk of the assembly, Bashir Diso, commended the organisers, including the house committee on information and the resource persons, for their commitment to media capacity building.

Mr Diso stressed that the legislature’s effectiveness depends not only on its activities but also on how they were communicated to the public.

He warned against misreporting, which could mislead citizens, create tension, and undermine democratic institutions.

He stated, “The workshop bridges knowledge gaps by providing journalists with insights into legislative operations, including bill initiation, committee functions, debate rules, and oversight responsibilities.”

Suleiman Auwal and Muhammad Adamu, who attended the workshop, said they would apply the knowledge gained judiciously.

They also commended the leadership of the assembly for the initiative.

The workshop featured paper presentations on “Mastering Legislative Reporting and the Function of Oversight in Ensuring Accountability and Good Governance in a Democratic Setting” and “Reporting Lawmakers.”

(NAN)