The Bauchi State government has restated its commitment to the capacity-building training of journalists to promote quality journalism.

Usman Shehu, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, said this during a courtesy visit by members of the Nigeria Union of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) on Thursday in Bauchi.

He said the professional capacity of media practitioners was key to promoting ethical and best practices in journalism towards advocating issues affecting women, youths, and children.

The commissioner pledged support to the union to strengthen its activities to enable it to offer impactful and result-oriented programmes.

“The role of female journalists in shaping narratives around critical societal issues cannot be overstated. We are committed to building their capacity for greater productivity,” he said.

The chairperson of NAWOJ, Rashida Yusuf, highlighted the association’s efforts towards enhancing access to girls’ education in the state.

She said the union had initiated media-driven programmes at the grassroots, including practical sessions on menstrual hygiene, empowerment, and tools for reporting gender-based violence.

“These initiatives have had a positive impact and opened doors for collaboration with development partners and civil society organisations,” she said.

Ms Yusuf said the union also equipped its members with digital tools for effective reportage, especially in entrepreneurship and nutrition.

While commending the state government for its support, Ms Yusuf urged it to furnish and equip its secretariat to enhance its operations. 

(NAN)