Press freedom in Nigeria: ‘We are the mouth and ears of the public’

Ahead of World Press Freedom Day, Amina Ahmed, a trainee journalist at Alheri Radio in Kaduna, reflects on her training experience and the importance of media for greater equity in healthcare.

“Growing up, I was always fascinated by the power of storytelling: how journalists can shape narratives, hold leaders accountable, and amplify marginalised voices," she said of what drove her to pursue journalism.

Amina joined BBC Media Action training and mentoring as part of a project focused on raising awareness of sexual and reproductive health rights among adolescent girls and young women with disabilities in Kaduna and Borno states. Through the training, journalists learned how to uncover powerful stories and report them effectively and fairly.

Through the training, she said she learned “the value of reporting, fact-checking, covering local stories and learning to navigate the complexities of media law”.

She said people with disabilities often do not get adequate family planning support from medical workers. As part of the project, trainees met with members of the community, sharing information from experts about family planning and the services available to them.

After Amina’s story aired on radio and TV, she received positive feedback, with many people with disabilities sharing that it had helped them better understand family planning and encouraged them to see a doctor to seek medical advice and services.

Through Media Action’s training, Amina gained a varied set of skills. “I learned a lot, from writing creative briefs for programmes, audio and video editing, multi-tracking, script writing and how to organise town hall meetings.”

The journey of a journalist in Nigeria, she said, is still not easy; she is passionate about showing disparities between the wealthy and poor.

“Press freedom is the backbone of any democracy; it allows journalists to hold leaders accountable and shed light on human rights abuses," said Amina.

“My journalism journey in Nigeria hasn’t been that easy; I still face a lot of challenges. I’ve witnessed a lot of trouble in the healthcare system, especially the poor being denied proper attention in hospitals. Many are still living without access to basic amenities like water and electricity; it’s even luxurious to having running water. The rich can afford generators but the poor – no one would care to see how you’re doing.”

“As we celebrate World Press Freedom Day, I ask the government, civil societies, and individuals to prioritise press freedom, to protect journalists and support independent media. I would like to plead to fellow journalists to remain committed in the face of adversity.

"If I see something happening, we are the mouth and ears of the public, their voices. But we really need the freedom to speak and take action as journalists.”

Amina is now building her experience by working with other radio stations, applying the skills she gained through Media Action’s training. Asked about her hope for the future, she says, “I want to continue to amplify my voice and pursue the truth.”