By Rabi’u Ahmadu Garkuwa, Kaduna A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE), has called...
By Rabi’u Ahmadu Garkuwa, Kaduna
A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE), has called on the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State Council, to collaborate in the fight against violent extremism through public awareness and advocacy campaigns.
The appeal was made by Mr. Eric John, PAVE's Kaduna State Team Lead, during a courtesy visit to the NUJ Executive Council in Kaduna.
In his remarks, Mr. John emphasized the powerful role the media can play in countering violent extremism, stating that journalists have a crucial responsibility in fostering peace and shaping public perception.
“Violent extremism is not only a security threat—it is a societal crisis that feeds on misinformation, division, and despair,” he said. “In this context, the media remains one of our most powerful allies—capable of shaping narratives, amplifying voices of peace, and holding institutions accountable.”
Speaking on behalf of the PAVE Kaduna Network, a coalition of civil society actors, community leaders, and youth-driven organizations, Mr. John highlighted the group’s mission to build resilience and promote inclusive, peaceful communities across Kaduna State and the broader North West region.
“But we cannot do this alone. We need the media,” he stressed. “The media serves as a bridge between truth and perception, between community realities and policy responses. Today, we are here to strengthen that bridge.”
He appealed to journalists to counter hate speech and extremist propaganda through factual, balanced reporting, amplify peace narratives and community success stories, educate the public on the root causes of violent extremism and promote dialogue and tolerance, and hold all stakeholders—including civil society actors—accountable for commitments made toward peace and justice.
“Let us remember: every word we publish, every image we share, and every narrative we frame can either fan the flames of violence or light the path to peace,” Mr. John stated.
He concluded by calling on media professionals across Kaduna—editors, broadcasters, online content creators, and journalists—to commit to responsible journalism that promotes unity, peace, and resilience.
Responding, NUJ Kaduna Chairman, Alhaji Abdulgafar Alabelewe, assured the PAVE team of the union’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peaceful coexistence.
“This is a commendable initiative,” Alabelewe said. “As journalists and watchdogs of the society, we will do everything within the law to partner with you in the fight against violent extremism.”
He also expressed NUJ’s willingness to work closely with PAVE to access internal training opportunities for journalists to better understand the organization’s operations and objectives.
"Our doors are always open to support and collaborate with you in this noble cause,” he assured.
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