The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State Council, in partnership with the Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF), on Friday organised a mental health training for journalists in the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the one-day training was to address the psychological impact of trauma and stress in the profession.
cross section of participants at the training
Delivering opening remarks on behalf of the Council Chairman, Alhaji Abdulgafar Alabelewe, described the training as a timely and necessary intervention for journalists who are regularly exposed to distressing and traumatic events.
Represented by Mr Gambo Santos, the council’s Secretary, the chairman emphasised the importance of journalists’ mental well-being.
Alabelewe stated that fieldwork often involves witnessing violence and natural disasters, which could affect journalists’ emotional health.
He said, “This training is not just another workshop, but an investment in our total well-being.
“A journalist who is not mentally sound cannot effectively hold leaders accountable or serve society the way we are called to do.”
Alabelewe expressed appreciation to AMDF for its consistent support in building journalistic capacity across diverse areas including investigative reporting, fact-checking, and field safety.
In her remarks, the Executive Director of AMDF, Mrs. Sekyen Dadik, said the initiative stemmed from rising concerns voiced during the 2024 Africa Conference on Development Journalism, where mental health emerged as a pressing issue.
“At AMDF, we prioritise the wellbeing of journalists.
“This training is to equip you with tools to manage stress, build resilience, and promote your mental health,” she stated.
The Lead Facilitator, Dr Sanni Kamaldeen, a Specialist Psychiatrist, urged media professionals to watch for signs of emotional fatigue and not shy away from seeking help.
He stressed that mental health was equally important as physical health.
“Silence around psychological struggles must be broken,” Kamaldeen said, encouraging proactive mental health care.
Participants at the event described the training as a much needed step, given the increasing psychological strain associated with journalistic work in conflict and high pressure environments.
They also called for more mental health interventions and the establishment of support systems for media professionals.
The capacity building training was attended by a cross section of journalists from various media outfits including the Kaduna Zonal Manager of NAN, Bashir Rabe-Mani.
(NAN)
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