Canada Recommits to Protecting Children in Conflict Zones

The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria, represented by Pasqual Salvaggio, reaffirmed Canada's commitment to supporting global efforts to protect children affected by armed conflict during a five-day training workshop for journalists in Abuja. The workshop, organized by the Dallaire Institute and Journalist Human Rights, focused on enhancing the capacity of journalists to report on issues related to children in conflict zones.

Offiong Nsa from the Dallaire Institute highlighted the vulnerability of children in such situations, often being exploited and coerced into armed groups. Mustapha Dumbuya, Africa Program Director for Journalist Human Rights, noted that the training is part of a broader initiative to strengthen media capacity across Africa.

Grace Ik, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Council, urged journalists to exercise empathy and professionalism when reporting on children affected by conflict. The workshop aimed to foster collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations, and media to combat the recruitment of children into armed violence.