Media leaders, climate advocates, and community figures are pushing for better climate journalism in Nigeria. As the nation gears up for a bigger role in global climate discussions, the demand for quality reporting on climate issues is rising.
On May 13, 2026, a two-day media training conference kicked off in Abuja. This event focused on “Climate Governance and Gender Mainstreaming in the UNFCCC and Minamata Conventions”. It was organized by EnviroNews Advocacy and Campaigns for Sustainability (Endvocas) and the Women Environmental Programme (WEP).
Michael Simire, the publisher of EnviroNews Nigeria, emphasized the urgency of the training. He pointed out that climate impacts are increasingly severe across Nigeria, highlighting the need for informed public engagement. “Journalists aren’t just storytellers; they set agendas and hold people accountable,” Simire said. He believes that enhancing journalists’ understanding can lead to better governance and advocacy.
The training aimed to improve journalists’ knowledge of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Minamata Convention on Mercury. Simire stressed the importance of including gender perspectives in climate reporting, as women and girls often face the brunt of environmental crises.
Dr. Priscilla Achakpa, founder of WEP, echoed these sentiments. She noted that the media can bridge the gap between scientific data, policy discussions, and public understanding. This role is vital for promoting environmental justice and sustainable development.
Doose Joanna Hannu, speaking on behalf of the Climate and Sustainable Development Network, highlighted that climate change is no longer just a future issue; it’s a current crisis impacting lives daily. “The media shapes how we understand our future,” she said.
Former House of Representatives member Sam Onuigbo also spoke about the power of climate journalism. He underscored that this kind of reporting goes beyond merely covering events; it should investigate funding, expose corruption, and amplify voices from vulnerable communities.
Statistics show that women and youth are often disproportionately affected by climate disasters yet play crucial roles in advocacy. A recent study revealed that women are 14 times more likely to die during climate-related events than men. This shows why their perspectives are essential in climate discourse.
The conference brought together journalists, activists, and development stakeholders. The goal was clear: improve media skills for effective climate reporting and ensure gender representation in environmental discussions.
In summary, the call for stronger climate journalism in Nigeria is urgent. As the reality of climate change intensifies, the media’s role becomes more critical. There’s a pressing need for informed reporting to foster accountability and drive meaningful climate action for the future.
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Climate journalism,EnviroNews Advocacy and Campaigns for Sustainability (Endvocas),Nigeria,stakeholders,Women Environmental Programme (WEP)
