UNICEF, Nigerian media leaders partner to boost children’s rights advocacy

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and the Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME), have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to advance the rights and welfare of children in Nigeria.

The partnership is to leverage on the media’s influential power to promote and protect children’s rights across the country.

A statement by UNICEF noted that the collaboration would focus on advocacy and awareness campaigns, capacity building for journalists, shared research, recognition of impactful media contributions and influencing policy to support children’s rights.

The MOU underscores a commitment from all parties to work collectively towards a society that upholds and advances the welfare of its youngest members.

UNICEF representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate said: “This partnership with the Nigerian Guild of Editors and DAME harnesses the media’s immense potential as an advocate for the welfare of children. Media not only informs public opinion but also influences those in power to enact changes that favour children’s rights.”

She said that by joining forces, they were setting a course to transform how children’s rights are reported and addressed in the media, ensuring that every child’s right is respected, protected and fulfilled.

The president of the NGE, Eze Anaba, said the media had the capacity to shape perspectives and effect real change.

“Through this MOU, we are pledging to uphold the integrity of journalism by focusing our collective expertise on sensitive and impactful reporting concerning children’s rights. We are committed to working together to build a robust framework that supports this cause,” he said.

A trustee of DAME, Lanre Idowu, emphasized the importance of excellence in journalism, saying, “Recognition through awards plays a crucial role in elevating journalistic standards.” 

Meanwhile, the MOU, which is for a period of two years, outlines cooperation to enhance public advocacy and awareness of children’s rights through media campaigns and journalistic content focused on education, health, nutrition and protection.