UNICEF and Bauchi Urge Media to Advocate for Children's Health

As the 2027 general elections approach, the Bauchi State Government, through the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and Multilateral Coordination, collaborated with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Bauchi Field Office to engage journalists in a Media Dialogue. This event, held at Yimir Hotel in Bauchi, aimed to encourage media practitioners to advocate for adequate public financing of children’s health and welfare.

Umar Muhammad Shira, Managing Director of the Bauchi Radio Corporation and Zonal Chairman of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), emphasized the media's critical social responsibility to champion children's rights and health. He urged journalists to utilize investigative journalism and public engagement to expose funding gaps and hold duty-bearers accountable.

Shira stated that investing in children's health is essential for securing a healthier and more productive future generation. The dialogue attracted 60 media practitioners from Bauchi, Gombe, and Plateau states, reinforcing the importance of prioritizing child-related issues in government policies and budgets.