By Anietie Akpan
Media leaders, government, and development community have called for a stronger media advocacy for the rights and welfare of children in Nigeria.
The Symposium reaffirmed that “the path to a just and equitable Nigeria begins with putting every child, especially the most vulnerable, at the centre of public dialogue and national action”.
This was the position of stakeholders at the World Children’s Day Media Symposium in Lagos on Tuesday, November 25 as contained in release by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Nigeria, Communication Specialist, Sussan Akila.
Organized by UNICEF Nigeria, the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), and the Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME), the event held under the theme “Reinforcing the Role of Media in Mainstreaming Child Rights” brought together editors, journalists, UNICEF Champions, development partners, civil society, and private sector representatives to explore how storytelling, accountability journalism, and public dialogue can shape a better future for Nigeria’s children.
The symposium followed the release of the “Nigerian Child 2025 Report”, which shows that two out of every three children in Nigeria live in multidimensional poverty, lacking access to education, healthcare, nutrition, and safety. The report also reveals that over half of all children experience some form of violence before age 18, and that one in three girls is married before reaching adulthood.
UNICEF Nigeria Representative, Ms. Wafaa Saeed, presented the key findings of the report and called on the media to be a driving force for change.
“The data tells us that millions of children are being left behind, but it also shows where progress is possible. The media can change how we see these children, from statistics to stories of strength and hope. Every time a journalist gives voice to a child, the nation takes a step forward,” she said.
The President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Eze Anaba, underscored the power of media in shaping perception and driving accountability.
“Editors decide what the nation pays attention to. We must ensure that the struggles and dreams of Nigeria’s children remain part of our everyday conversation. That is how societies grow more humane, more honest, and more hopeful,” he said.
In his remarks, Chairman of DAME, Mr. Lanre Idowu, reminded participants that powerful journalism can transform children’s lives.
“Good journalism does not just inform, it saves lives. When the press asks why a child is out of school or why a health centre is closed, it triggers solutions. Today is a call to all of us in the media to be the steady voice that speaks for those who cannot yet speak for themselves,” he said.
One of the major highlights of the event was the panel discussion moderated by Dr. Chinonso Egemba, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, on“Equipping the Nigerian Child for the Future: How Prepared Are We?”.
The session brought together government officials, media leaders, and UNICEF representatives who stressed the urgency of turning policies into real impact for children in communities and called for stronger collaboration with the media to challenge harmful practices, promote ethical reporting, and keep child welfare at the center of national priorities.
The discussion also highlighted the need to equip young people with skills, mentorship, and opportunities that will prepare them for meaningful participation in Nigeria’s future economy.
The symposium concluded with a call to action for Nigerian media organizations to establish Child Rights Desks, build stronger partnerships with development agencies, and increase evidence-based reporting that highlights both challenges and solutions.
Accordingly, the symposium resolved to elevate children’s stories beyond charity narratives to matters of public policy and accountability.
Strengthen collaboration between editors, government, and development partners on evidence-based reporting.
Promote children’s voices in media, ensuring they are seen as active participants in shaping the future. Integrate child rights into journalism training and newsroom priorities nationwide.
