No fewer than 30 journalists drawn from the print, electronic and online media organisations have benefitted from a three-day capacity-building training on conflict-sensitive reporting, organised by Search for Common Ground with funding support from the European Union (EU).
The training, which held at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Asaba, the Delta State capital, from September 2 to 4, 2025, focused on equipping journalists with skills in conflict sensitivity, cultural awareness, inclusive community programming, and digital peacebuilding.
Speaking at the close of the workshop, the Mass Media and Information Management Coordinator of Search for Common Ground, Mr. Sunny Dada, said the initiative was borne out of the recognition of journalists as nation builders and critical stakeholders in the Niger Delta.
According to him, the training seeks to empower journalists to produce reports that attract investors to the region rather than drive them away.
“Journalists are the fourth estate of the realm and it is expedient that their capacity is strengthened in conflict sensitivity and inclusive programming,” Dada stated.
He explained that participants were also exposed to the concept of digital peacebuilding and social listening to help them identify and counter online conflict drivers such as hate speech and fake news.
Dada noted that post-training assessments had already shown significant improvement in the capacity of the journalists, describing the experience as rewarding.
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One of the participants, Henry Osiayo, described the training as timely, noting that it had broadened his understanding of conflict-sensitive reporting.
“I have learnt how to approach sensitive stories without escalating tensions.
“The sessions on digital peacebuilding were particularly eye-opening because they showed us how to respond responsibly to online conflict drivers,” he said.
Another participant, Onos Agbamu, said the programme had enhanced his skills in cultural sensitivity and inclusive programming.
“As journalists, we often overlook how our reports affect communities. This training has given me practical tools to ensure my stories contribute to peace rather than conflict,” he added.
