To strengthen environmental advocacy and public engagement, the Gombe State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project has trained 100 environmental journalists in a one-day capacity-building workshop held in Gombe.

The training, organized by the project’s Focal NGO, aimed to equip journalists with the tools and knowledge to effectively report on climate resilience, land restoration, and the performance of ACReSAL interventions across communities.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Sani Adamu Jauro, Gombe State ACReSAL Project Coordinator, emphasized the importance of impact-driven journalism in stimulating community action and policy support.

Dr. Jauro commended the media for their ongoing support and announced plans for a forthcoming competition to recognize outstanding environmental reporting. He also lauded Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for fostering a media-friendly environment that enables journalists to thrive professionally.

Representing the Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Ethical Orientation, Mijinyawa Mohammed Ardo, Mr. Richard James described the training as “visionary and imperative,” highlighting the media’s critical role in driving public enlightenment and sustainable policy advocacy.

Other dignitaries in attendance included Comrade Faruk Muazu Gombe, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and Adaline Waye, State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), both of whom praised ACReSAL’s initiative and urged journalists to prioritize coverage of environmental issues.

Participants pledged to intensify reporting on land degradation and restoration efforts, while calling for continued support in media literacy and professional development from stakeholders.

This initiative marks a significant step in aligning media engagement with Nigeria’s broader climate resilience goals.