Media scholar and lecturer at the Nigeria Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Dr. Jide Johnson, has called on relevant stakeholders to take more proactive steps in safeguarding children from abuse, neglect and exploitation.
Johnson made the appeal during a workshop organised by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in Lagos to commemorate the World Day Against Child Labour.
The programme, held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Ikeja, brought together journalists and advocates to discuss child protection issues and responsible media reporting.
Addressing participants, Johnson stressed the need for government institutions, parents, communities and media organisations to work collectively to curb child abuse, neglect and preventable deaths among children.
He emphasised that the rights guaranteed under Nigeria’s Child Rights Act of 2003 are legally binding and should be treated as enforceable obligations rather than acts of benevolence.
According to him, every child is entitled to equal protection and dignity regardless of social or economic background.
Johnson noted that children are particularly vulnerable and depend on adults for guidance, safety and support, making it imperative for society to shield them from harm.
He highlighted challenges such as poverty, neglect, trafficking, child labour, sexual violence, early marriage and female genital mutilation as persistent threats to children’s wellbeing.
The lecturer also identified malnutrition, inadequate immunisation, unsafe drinking water and exposure to violence as factors contributing to avoidable child mortality.
He explained that international conventions and human rights frameworks have over time reinforced the responsibility of governments and societies to protect children.
Johnson recalled that Nigeria ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1991 before enacting the Child Rights Act in 2003 to strengthen legal safeguards for minors.
He said the legislation clearly outlines the responsibilities of families, institutions and government in ensuring children’s welfare and protection.
The media expert further urged journalists to exercise caution when reporting stories involving minors by protecting their identities, respecting their privacy and avoiding content that could cause additional trauma.
He advised practitioners to verify information thoroughly and always place the best interests of the child at the centre of their reporting.
Speaking at the event, Lagos NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs. Jumoke Johnson, also urged journalists to handle stories involving child victims with sensitivity.
She cautioned against intrusive interviews and reporting practices that could expose children to further emotional distress, discrimination or public stigma.