Nigerian Journalists Undergo Intensive Training on Economic Reporting
A two-day training program organized by Premium Times Training Academy, with support from the Central Bank of Nigeria, has equipped 25 journalists with the skills to produce accurate, data-driven, and impactful stories on the country’s economy and financial landscape. The training, which took place in Abuja, aimed to enhance the journalists’ ability to interpret key economic indicators, access and verify open-source economic data, and maintain high ethical standards in their reporting.
The program’s facilitators, including industry professionals and experts, emphasized the importance of responsible economic reporting, particularly in the context of Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 general elections. They noted that poor coverage of monetary policy can trigger panic, distort public expectations, and destabilize the economy. The journalists were urged to distinguish between core and food inflation, understand monetary tools, and consider the impact of excess liquidity on inflation.
The training also focused on the dangers of incomplete reporting and selective narratives, which can fuel panic, distort public perception, and weaken confidence in the economy. The journalists were advised to provide full context, dig for comprehensive data, and seek expert explanations when reporting on Central Bank reforms and economic policy.
Furthermore, the program highlighted the importance of fact-checking in navigating Nigeria’s complex information environment. The journalists were warned about the growing misinformation ecosystem, including manipulated videos, impersonated sources, and politically driven disinformation, which can mislead the public and distort national discourse.
The training reinforced the significance of accurate, ethical, and context-rich reporting in shaping public understanding and confidence in Nigeria’s economy. The journalists were charged to apply ethical principles, interpret key economic indicators, and produce stories that inform, educate, and responsibly influence public discourse. By doing so, they can contribute to a more stable and resilient economy, and ultimately, a better future for Nigeria.