A recent media training by the Scoop Storytelling Initiative has sparked critical conversations around the need for inclusive and ethical storytelling in Nigeria.
The initiative, which focused on amplifying underrepresented voices from marginalized communities, trained journalists in Abuja, Lagos, and Kano.
In Kano, the training was conducted on Wednesday and Thursday at Residence Sixteen, Magajin Rumfa, Kano; it brought journalists, civil society actors, and media trainers to discuss persistent gaps in media practice, particularly those concerning research, ethics, and inclusivity.
At the heart of the Scoop’s initiative is the goal to amplify voices from communities that are often ignored in mainstream narratives.
Zainab Bala, the team lead for Scoop Storytelling Initiative, explained that the group targets stories from places and people that rarely make the headlines.
“We amplify their voices so decision-makers and the public can hear them, understand their realities, and spark change. That’s what we’re about,” Zainab stated.
However, Bala pointed out that media coverage of sensitive groups such as people with disabilities, children, internally displaced persons, and women often lacks depth, sensitivity, and ethical rigor.
“Journalists still need targeted training on how to report these stories with care.
“For instance, I didn’t know until recently that reporting on a child under 18 requires written consent from a parent or guardian.
“Many journalists still name children or survivors of abuse without understanding the lifelong consequences,” she emphasized.
Looking ahead, Bala said she hopes to see Kano-based media integrate these ethical standards into their daily reporting, especially when covering marginalized groups.
“We want to see stories that are not just accurate, but dignified stories that don’t just highlight problems but also solutions,” she added.
Among the key topics addressed during the training was journalism ethics, with Professor Rukayya Aliyu leading an engaging session that emphasized the importance of accuracy, fairness, and responsibility in news reporting.
Another notable facilitator was Isiyaku Ahmed, Editor-in-Chief of Stallion Times, who delivered a practical session on investigative journalism.
In his presentation, he walked participants through the investigative process, highlighting techniques for gathering credible information, verifying sources, and ensuring safety while uncovering hidden truths.
Another facilitator, Alhassan Bala, took the participants through a session on fact-checking. He emphasized the importance of verifying every piece of information before publishing, saying,
He added: “In an age of misinformation, the journalist’s first duty is to the truth and that starts with fact-checking.”
He is also the founder of “Alkalanci,” the first indigenous fact-checking hub in the Hausa language, which aims to combat fake news and promote media literacy among Hausa-speaking audiences.
Dr. Augustin Okere, head of research at the Scoop Storytelling Initiative, highlighted a recurring challenge: journalists’ limited capacity for in-depth research.
“There’s a real gap when it comes to journalists researching for their stories.
“We need to enhance journalists’ skill sets in terms of accessing public records, triangulating data, and verifying sources. But beyond that, we should also empower citizen journalists who serve as essential channels of on-the-ground information,” he noted.
Okere stressed that while many journalists are already working hard to produce meaningful stories, there is still a pressing need to invest in their continuous upskilling.
“Well-trained journalists can’t be everywhere, but through collaboration with informed citizens and access to the right tools, they can still tell complete and impactful stories,” he added.
He emphasized that strengthening research capacity can help reshape public discourse on governance, accountability, and social justice.
Participants also shared personal reflections on how the training reshaped their perspectives. Mr. Abayomi Timileyin, a media professional, praised the accessibility of the sessions and facilitators.
“I learned a lot about investigative journalism and the ethics of storytelling, especially when covering risky or sensitive topics.
“It’s important to weigh the risks of a story and always prioritize safety.
“I also gained insights on how journalism can intersect with youth-led activism and data,” Timileyin added.
The initiative is supported by the Nigerian Youth Futures Fund (NYFF), which empowers young innovators working to strengthen civic engagement and accountability across Nigeria.
