The Christoffel Blinden Mission (CBM) in conjuction with Learning Through Skills Aquisation Initiative (LETSAI) organised a two-day media engagement and capacity-building workshop for journalists in Kogi State, aimed at promoting inclusive and rights-based reporting on disability issues.
The training, tagged “Engagement and Training for Journalists on Disability Law in Kogi State,” seeks to enhance media practitioners’ understanding of disability rights while fostering stronger collaboration between journalists and the disability community.
Speaking at the opening session on Thursday CBM Communications Coordinator, Grace Olomiwe, emphasized the crucial role of the media in shaping public attitudes toward persons with disabilities.
According to her, journalists possess the power to influence public perception positively through responsible reporting that promotes inclusion rather than reinforcing stigma and discrimination.
Olomiwe noted that the workshop would expose participants to the legal and human rights frameworks guiding disability reporting, with particular focus on the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
She explained that CBM is committed to strengthening partnerships between media professionals and disability advocates in Kogi State to ensure greater visibility for the concerns and rights of persons with disabilities.
“We hope this engagement will nurture a network of journalists who will champion inclusive reporting and hold relevant authorities accountable for the protection of disability rights,” she said.
The training is also designed to familiarize participants with appropriate language, ethical considerations, and story approaches that uphold the dignity of persons with disabilities and discourage stereotypes.
Sessions during the two-day programme will cover disability law, inclusive communication, and practical strategies for collaboration between the media and disability-focused organizations.
The workshop has attracted selected journalists alongside persons with disabilities, providing a platform for dialogue and knowledge-sharing on advancing inclusion through the media.
