API Urges Journalists to Foster Social Cohesion in Nigeria

The Africa Poll Institute (API) called on journalists to promote social cohesion through responsible reporting during a two-day workshop held in Abuja. The workshop aimed to equip media practitioners to champion social cohesion, emphasizing the media's critical role in shaping public narratives and strengthening national unity.

Prof. Bell Ihua, Executive Director of API, stated that social cohesion relies on trust in government and public institutions. He highlighted the need for civic participation and the importance of ensuring that every citizen benefits from government initiatives.

Dr. Olusoji Adeniyi urged journalists to avoid ethnic profiling and stereotypes in their reporting, warning against attributing criminal activities to specific ethnic groups. The workshop also addressed the welfare of journalists, with Odoh Okenyodo calling for improved financial security to enable responsible reporting.

The API plans to release the latest edition of the Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey on June 25, 2026, which will provide data to support these initiatives.