Seek out research institutions for environmental data gathering – Journalists told
Journalists Urged to Leverage Research Institutions for Environmental Reporting
UYO, Akwa Ibom State — The Media Advocate for Journalists Initiative (MAJI) has encouraged journalists to seek partnerships with research-based institutions when sourcing environmental data, aiming to enhance the accuracy of their reporting.
Mr. Ikechukwu Ohaka, MAJI’s Environment and Conservation Officer, offered this advice during a media training session titled “Harnessing Environmental Data for Reporting in the Niger Delta.” He highlighted that bureaucratic complexities and the classification of environmental documents within some government agencies have hindered journalists’ access to reliable data.
Ohaka noted a significant gap between scientific environmental data and public comprehension, which has weakened citizen engagement and responses to environmental issues in the Niger Delta region. He emphasized the necessity for journalists to acquire essential skills in data gathering and analysis to elevate public awareness and influence policy formulation.
“Environmental stories should be driven by identified data insights that foster constructive citizen participation,” Ohaka stated. He acknowledged the challenges journalists face in accessing reliable environmental data due to government restrictions and suggested collaboration with research institutions and open-source data platforms as a potential solution.
Participants in the training were introduced to various data collection tools, including sensor-based monitoring, field sampling, low-cost IoT devices, satellite imagery, and mobile data applications.
Dr. Prince Eze, who spoke on “Effective Advocacy Using Environmental Data,” underscored the importance of credible, verifiable data in advocacy efforts. He noted that deficiencies in data systems often lead to ineffective policy decisions and urged journalists to adopt a strategic, evidence-based approach when engaging stakeholders and shaping public discourse.
