In a bid to enhance the role of the media in fostering peace and advancing Nigeria’s livestock sector, the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRiNG) programme, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD), recently organised a capacity-building workshop for journalists.

The training focused on “The Role of Conflict-Sensitive Communication in the Development of the Livestock Industry,” equipping media professionals with the tools to better report on the complex issues surrounding livestock, land use, and farmer-herder relations.

Funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the SPRiNG initiative supports FMLD in formulating evidence-based and conflict-sensitive strategies to boost productivity in the livestock industry while creating an enabling environment for peacebuilding and national security.

Speaking to AgroNigeria, independent consultant Zigwai Ayuba, one of the facilitators, underscored the vital role of journalists in shaping public understanding of conflict drivers in the livestock sector. She highlighted that issues surrounding land use, pasture, fodder shortages, and farmer-herder disputes remain major sources of tension, stressing that accurate and balanced reporting is crucial in reducing violence and stereotypes.

Ayuba also drew attention to the public health dimension, urging the media to report responsibly on livestock-related diseases such as anthrax, Newcastle disease, and other zoonotic infections. According to her, improving public awareness through responsible journalism will support government efforts in managing livestock health and strengthening the value chain.

She further explained that the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development is deliberately engaging the media to enhance communication, educate the public, and integrate journalists into policy development processes.

“The media has a component in the new policies drafted by the Ministry. This engagement is strategic and will continue periodically, allowing journalists to track progress and address emerging challenges,” Ayuba noted.

The workshop represents a significant milestone in fostering collaboration between government and media stakeholders, ensuring journalists are not only informed but also play an active role in shaping narratives that promote peaceful coexistence, modern animal husbandry practices, and sustainable livestock development.