The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Niger State Council has educated its members in solution journalism, introducing them to new practises in the field.
Mr. Ismail Abdulaziz, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), led the workshop in Minna on Saturday.
According to media accounts, representatives from all of the state’s correspondent chapels attended the course.
“Solutions journalism is rigorous research and fact-based reporting on solutions to social problems that affect people’s lives taken by both state and non-state actors.”
“It’s a satisfying new initiative for journalists because it makes the news interesting to readers and subscribers who are tired of hearing and reading about problem-based reporting only.”
“One important aspect of solution journalism is that it entails looking at the impact and relevance of the solution as well as explaining the limitations and challenges encountered while providing the solution,” he said.
According to Abdulaziz, the head of solutions journalism at NAN, the journalist in solutions journalism must have a strong working understanding of the profession.
“This implies that you should think about what your research will focus on.” “It also allows you to do comparative research on solutions provided to a challenge from another country that is similar to your local challenge,” he said.
According to Abdulaziz, reporters in solutions journalism must concentrate on solutions supplied by people, NGOs, CSOs, and governments at all levels, just as they might report on how a problem is remedied anywhere.
“A journalist is exposed to the fundamentals of holding government accountable to the people while practising solutions journalism.”
According to Abdulaziz, in order to be successful in solution journalism, journalists must firmly adhere to the ethics of the industry.
“As a new initiative, Solutions Journalism facilitates global networking among journalists.” It must also meet four commonly agreed pillars.
“It provides opportunities for mentors and funding, as well as the opportunity to have your story published in various news outlets around the world,” he added.
Mr. Usman Chiji, a trainee and council secretary, said that the training motivated members to incorporate the notion of solutions journalism into their reporting.
“It’s a new initiative in which we are fortunate to be a part.” “We will continue to provide such trainings to our members in order to improve their skills,” he stated.
According to the media, the training was performed in an interactive session between the teacher and the trainees.
According to the media, the state council is made up of 11 existing chapels with over 250 members.
