The Yobe State Ministry of Information has called on journalists and media organisations to strengthen in-depth reporting on resilience, social cohesion and peacebuilding efforts in North-East Nigeria.
The call was made at a consultation meeting held in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, focusing on improving media narratives in a region affected by more than a decade of insurgency.
Representing the Commissioner for Information, Abdullahi Bego, a communications officer, Ali Musa Yawale, said the media plays a critical role in shaping public understanding of recovery efforts across the region.
He noted that while the North-East, particularly Yobe State, has faced significant challenges, there are also “powerful stories of courage, recovery, reconciliation and community strength” that often receive limited coverage.
According to him, media reports frequently focus on conflict and immediate incidents, with less attention given to long-term progress in rebuilding communities and restoring trust.
“This creates an incomplete picture and can reinforce negative perceptions,” he said.
The meeting, convened under an initiative supported by UNICEF and implemented by the University of Maiduguri, brought together stakeholders from government, the media, academia and civil society.
Participants discussed the need for more context-driven and human-centred reporting, as well as greater investment in investigative and long-form journalism.
The ministry emphasised that responsible reporting could help promote dialogue, counter misinformation, highlight successful reintegration efforts and strengthen trust between communities and institutions.
It also stressed the importance of collaboration among key actors, including government communication units, journalists, researchers and community leaders, to improve the quality and impact of reporting.
The consultation is expected to produce practical recommendations, including guidelines for conflict-sensitive journalism, capacity building for reporters, and the use of digital platforms to amplify balanced narratives.
Officials say the initiative aims to ensure that reporting on the North-East reflects not only the region’s challenges but also its progress and future prospects.
