Opeyemi Obafemi
A Communication and Media expert Bukola Afeni has called on journalists to intensify advocacy on family planning issues to bring about budget line in the federal capital Territory.
She made this statement during a media roundtable discussion organized by the Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria.
Afeni emphasized that the media plays a vital role in shaping societal awareness and disseminating crucial information to the public, and should recognize family planning as a pivotal tool in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
She urged Journalists to leverage various media platforms to discuss and raise awareness about family planning, a crucial factor in achieving a country’s economic and development goals.
“As journalists and media practitioners, we can utilize our personal and social media platforms to highlight the importance of family planning to society, effectively becoming family planning advocates. By doing so, we can generate greater interest and engagement around family planning “.
One of the participant, a reporter from News Agency of Nigeria, Michael Ajayi stressed the need for more advocacy on the part of the media practitioners, such that Nigerians will be well informed about Family planning issues.
He noted that male involvement is crucial in Family Planning Advocacy.
“We need to involve the male folk and ensure that they have adequate information about family planning so they can support their wives and partner.
Involving men is crucial in the journey of maternal health”, he said.
He also emphasized that several factors hinder equitable access to reproductive health services, including fear of the unknown, delayed conception, stigmatization, and misconceptions about the effects of family planning.
A Journalist from Radio Nigeria, Florence Adewale stressed the importance of utilizing diverse terminology to educate the public about family planning.
“Furthermore, it is essential to acknowledge that different individuals face unique challenges. We must be equipped to address their specific needs by understanding the most suitable family planning method for each person.”
She proposed a range of media solution to educate the public, including the creation of catchy jingles, conducting street interviews, hosting phone-in programs, and utilizing cartoons to convey key messages.
Patience Moses from Value Chain TV said the media should have specific websites to obtain authentic information from experts which will aid their reportage on Family planning.
“By working together, the media can play a crucial role in promoting family planning and addressing the challenges that hinder its adoption in Nigeria”, she added.
“As Journalists we need to create more awareness about family planning, particularly in rural areas.
Some people do not believe in family planning due to religion and tribal sentiment. They need more orientation to change their perspective”.
