By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Nigeria’s Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, has emphasized the critical role of the media in tackling the nation’s environmental challenges, calling for stronger collaboration between journalists and government.
He made the call in Abuja at a training workshop and interactive session for environment reporters, themed “Engaging Media Outfits on Reporting Environmental Sustainability in Nigeria.”
The Minister said the Federal Ministry of Environment Nigeria is committed to supporting the media with improved access to information, data, and field operations to enhance accurate and impactful reporting.
Describing the media as indispensable partners, he noted that their role in reporting issues such as climate change, biodiversity, ecosystems, and natural resource management remains vital to national development.
“The media is the mirror of society, the voice that amplifies truth, and the bridge between policy and the people. Your work helps translate complex environmental issues into narratives that drive action and accountability,”he said.
Lawal urged journalists to sustain momentum in projecting the Ministry’s policies and programmes, assuring them of continued partnership aimed at building a cleaner, greener, and more resilient Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Salihu Usman, described the workshop as timely, stressing that environmental challenges require collective action.
Represented by the Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Bahijjatu Abubakar, he said the training would deepen collaboration, build capacity, and promote knowledge sharing among stakeholders.
He commended the media for consistently highlighting environmental issues and contributing to increased public awareness and engagement.
Meanwhile, the Human Resource Manager of Lincoln Communication Limited, Emmanuel Uwaegbu, noted that environmental sustainability requires sustained commitment and collective responsibility.
He reaffirmed the organization’s support for the Ministry, expressing optimism for continued collaboration to drive innovation and progress in environmental reporting and advocacy.
