Media organisations have been urged to provide safety training and emergency support for journalists, particularly women reporters, as part of efforts to protect media professionals from security threats while carrying out their duties.
The Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Afolabi, gave the advice while delivering a lecture at the monthly meeting of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Abia State Chapter.
Speaking on the topic, “Reporting Safely: What Every Woman Journalist Should Know About Security, Risk and the Police,” Afolabi urged female journalists to make personal safety a priority, especially when covering volatile or high-risk situations.
He advised reporters to assess potential risks, evaluate security conditions and identify escape routes before entering dangerous locations.
The police commissioner also encouraged journalists to work in teams, maintain regular communication with colleagues and withdraw immediately when a situation poses a serious threat to their lives.
On responsible journalism, Afolabi cautioned against publishing unverified security reports, warning that inaccurate information could trigger public panic and endanger lives.
He, however, stressed that the need for responsible reporting should not be used as an excuse to restrict press freedom.
Highlighting the additional challenges confronting women journalists, the police chief identified gender-based harassment, intimidation, cyberstalking and online threats as some of the risks they face in the course of their work.
He urged female reporters to exercise caution when sharing their locations and personal information online.
Afolabi further advised victims of online harassment to preserve evidence of threats, strengthen the security of their digital accounts and report incidents to the Police Cybercrime Unit for appropriate action.
Earlier, the Chairperson of NAWOJ in Abia State, Ambassador Norah Okafor, said the training was designed to equip female journalists with practical knowledge of personal safety and mental well-being, particularly ahead of the electioneering period.
She emphasised the importance of preparing journalists to navigate the security challenges associated with political reporting.
In her vote of thanks, a pioneer NAWOJ Chairperson, Lady Nwaka Amuwa, appreciated the commissioner of police for his partnership with the association and reaffirmed members’ commitment to responsible journalism.
The engagement highlighted the importance of collaboration between security agencies and media organisations in creating a safer working environment for journalists while protecting press freedom and the public’s right to information.
