The Africa Foundation for Young Media Professionals (AFYMP), has trained young journalists on disability inclusive reporting to promote positive and accurate reportage of issues about persons with disabilities (PWDs).
The two-day workshop which held at the University of Ibadan Conference Centre brought together journalists from different newsrooms across Nigeria, including Adeyemi Okediran, Journalist with BONews Service.
While giving his opening remarks, Mr. Yinka Olaito, the Executive Director of AFYMP said the 2024 training on disability and inclusion reporting aims to equip journalists with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to pursue and write news stories related to issues affecting persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Mr Olaito noted that it would empower the beneficiaries to develop a unique style in writing such stories in a manner that does not harm or humiliate PWDs.
Mr. Olaito also revealed that there are 30 million people in Nigeria with disabilities, with Lagos State having more than 3 million of them. He highlighted the challenges faced by PWDs, including a 26% poverty rate compared to those without disabilities.
The AFYMP Executive Director, who emphasized that issues surrounding disability are underreported and often portrayed negatively, thereafter urged journalists to remember that justice and equity cannot exist without inclusion, emphasizing the importance of using empowering language.
Dr. Toyin Aderemi, an experienced development practitioner with a bias for disability-inclusive development, enlightened the journalists on the impact of data on disability and inclusion reporting. She emphasized the importance of reliable data and discussed various barriers to obtaining accurate information on disability.
Dr. Aderemi informed the journalists about different types of impairments, barriers, and disability data, emphasizing how this knowledge could aid them in writing their stories effectively.
Despite 19 states passing disability laws in Nigeria, Dr. Aderemi noted that organizations of PWDs are not well-funded, highlighting a gap in support for disability advocacy.
For her part, the Convener/CEO of Speaking Fingers, Mrs. Treasures Uchegbu emphasized the importance of partnership and collaboration in amplifying the voices of marginalized groups.
Mrs. Uchegbu also informed the journalists about various days dedicated to celebrating persons with disabilities, encouraging them to follow relevant stories. She facilitated group activities where journalists developed advocacy programs in education, entertainment, and religion, emphasizing the need for everyone to treat PWDs humanely.
The Africa Foundation For Young Media Professionals is dedicated to elevating Africa’s media landscape to global standards through capacity development and the reinforcement of right values. With its base in Nigeria and plans for regional expansion, AFYMP strives to empower media professionals to create inclusive and impactful stories that promote positive change.