Published Feb. 21, 2025
By Emberga Gbaa, Jos
UNICEF has called on journalists in Plateau State to adopt positive journalism to raise awareness and advocate for improved maternal and child health.
The plea was made by Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of UNICEF’s Field Office covering Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba, and Plateau states, during a media engagement in Jos on Friday.
Rafique emphasized the media’s powerful role in shaping public perceptions and promoting behavior changes that support healthier communities.
With Nigeria continuing to struggle with one of the highest maternal and child mortality rates in Africa, she urged journalists to focus on successful healthcare interventions and positive outcomes that inspire public trust and encourage people to utilize health services.
Drawing from her experience in Pakistan, Rafique explained how negative media coverage of maternal health had previously discouraged women from seeking medical care.
However, she noted that when the media shifted to reporting on successful deliveries and positive health outcomes, public perception improved, leading to more women seeking care and a reduction in maternal and newborn deaths.
Rafique also commended the Plateau State government for its efforts to enhance primary healthcare and improve child nutrition, particularly its funding of nutrition programs and provision of safe delivery kits for pregnant women.
She praised the state’s leadership, recognizing its commitment despite challenges.
At the event, Rafique called for more media attention on key health issues, including birth registration, immunization, and nutrition, with a particular focus on zero-dose children—those who have never received any vaccinations.
Opeyemi Olagunju, UNICEF’s Communication and Advocacy Officer for the five states, also spoke, urging journalists to advocate for children’s rights and suggested integrating birth registration with immunization efforts to improve both processes.
The event aimed to strengthen collaboration between the media and UNICEF in promoting social development and children’s rights, encouraging journalists to engage communities and report on issues such as child nutrition, school safety, and sanitation to inspire positive change in Plateau State.
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