The media has been urged to play a more active role in highlighting the environmental challenges facing the Niger Delta region.
Speaking at a Two-day training for journalists on environmental reporting, Dr. Emem Okon, Executive Director of Kebetkache Women Development Resource Centre, emphasized the need for the media to amplify the plight of the Niger Delta communities.
According to Dr. Okon, the media can influence policymakers to take action and ensure that justice is served for the communities affected by oil extraction and pollution.
She called on media practitioners to interrogate the trends and investigate the impact of international oil companies’ (IOCs) divestment from onshore operations in the Niger Delta.
The training aimed to empower journalists to report accurately and effectively on environmental issues in the Niger Delta.
Dr. Okon emphasized the importance of people-oriented narratives that will influence policymakers to take action.
By shedding light on the consequences of environmental damage, she noted that the media can help hold accountable those responsible and ensure that the rights of affected communities are protected.
She said: “That is why it is important that we hold this conversation with the media and also see how to encourage ourselves, resource ourselves to ensure that the narratives coming out from the Niger Delta is people oriented and it is something that will influence policy makers to take action.”
The WHISTLER reports that the Niger Delta region has been plagued by environmental degradation and pollution, with many communities still awaiting proper cleanup and remediation of polluted sites.
However, participants at the training emphasized that the media’s role in highlighting these issues is critical, saying it is essential that they continue to shed light on the plight of the Niger Delta communities.
Pius Dukor, a media practitioner in the state said: “By working together, the media, civil society, and policymakers can ensure that justice is served and the Niger Delta region receives the attention and support it needs to recover and thrive.”
