Hussain Kehinde Wahab
Nigeria is a country with a population of over 200 million people, making it the most populous country in Africa. Despite its abundant natural resources, Nigeria is plagued with several security and humanitarian challenges. These challenges have affected the economic, social, and political development of the country. However, journalism has a critical role to play in tackling these challenges.
No doubt, one of the primary security challenges in Nigeria is the activities of Boko Haram, an Islamic extremist group that seeks to establish an Islamic caliphate in the country. Since 2009, Boko Haram has carried out several attacks on civilians, government institutions, and security agencies. These attacks have resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and displacement of millions of people in the Northeast region of the country.
Apart from Boko Haram, Nigeria is also facing other security challenges, viz; armed banditry, kidnapping, and farmer-herder conflicts. These security challenges have led to the loss of lives and property, displacement of people, and the disruption of economic activities in several parts of the country.
The security challenges in Nigeria have also resulted in several humanitarian challenges. The displacement of millions of people in the Northeast region of the country has led to a humanitarian crisis, with many people living in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. These camps are characterized by poor living conditions, lack of basic amenities, and limited access to healthcare and education.
Furthermore, Nigeria is also facing other humanitarian challenges, such as poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity. These challenges have affected the socio-economic development of the country and have led to an increase in crime and insecurity.
The Role of Journalism in Tackling them.
Journalism plays a critical role in addressing security and humanitarian challenges in Nigeria and therefore should not serve as errands goons to politicians or their PR. The media serves as a watchdog, exposing the activities of security agencies, politicians, and other actors who may be involved in the perpetration of violence and insecurity. Journalists can investigate and report on the root causes of security and humanitarian challenges, which can help policymakers to develop appropriate strategies to address them.
Journalism can also help to raise awareness about security and humanitarian challenges in Nigeria. Through investigative reporting, documentaries, and feature stories, journalists can highlight the plight of victims of violence and insecurity, as well as the efforts of humanitarian organizations to address their needs.
In addition, journalists can serve as advocates and umpire for the victims of security and humanitarian challenges in Nigeria. Through their reporting, journalists can draw attention to the need for increased support and intervention from the government, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders.
In conclusion, Nigeria is facing several security and humanitarian challenges that have affected the socio-economic development of the country. However, journalism has a critical role to play in addressing these challenges. By investigating and reporting on the root causes of security and humanitarian challenges, raising awareness about the plight of victims, and advocating for increased support and intervention, journalists can contribute to efforts to address these challenges and promote peace and development in Nigeria.