The Borno Ministry of Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Resettlement, has urged Journalists in the state to support the re-integration of repentant insurgents for lasting peace.
The call is contained in a communique issued on Tuesday at the end of a one-day workshop on “The Role of Journalists in The Re-integration of Repentant Non-state Actors.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was organised by the State Ministry of Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Resettlement in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
The communique noted the significant role of journalists in social re-integration through increased awareness, influencing public opinion, as well as setting of general agenda among others.
It also stressed the need to involve them in all public policy initiatives.
“Journalists are encouraged to frame their narratives about re-integration from negative to positive outlooks.
“They are equally encouraged to highlight success stories and encourage stakeholders’ participation and collaboration,” the communique noted.
It supported the journalists’ resolved that the government must address the root causes that lead to radicalisation, while commending the Borno government for the few steps taken so far.
While commending the concept of Borno Model Approach adopted by the government which led to the surrender of more than 160,000 insurgents, it urged journalists to promote the concept for clarity and better understanding among the public.
It also urged the non-state actors to engage with and collaborate with members of the society rather than isolating themselves, while advising members of the public not to stigmatise against them.
The communique raised concern over the recent resurgence of bombings and planting of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), a development it condemned, saying: “it is detrimental to the re-integration and peace-building efforts.”
It tasked the security agencies and government on the need to take the matter seriously in addition to more measures to prevent further recurrences.
NAN reports that some veteran journalists who presented papers at the workshop include; Mohammed Alfa: “The Role of Journalists in Setting the Agenda for Social Reintegration” and “The Role of Journalists in Promoting Reconciliation and Peacebuilding while Reporting Reintegration Efforts” by Abdukareem Haruna.
The workshop was attended by many media experts including the National Chairperson of National Association of Women Journalists.