The Resource and Environmental Policy Research Centre, Environment for Development (REPRC-EfD) Nigeria, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has emphasised the critical role of the media in preventing environmental degradation.
Dr. Nnaemeka Chukwuone, Director of REPRC-EfD UNN, made the statement on Friday during a one-day workshop organised for journalists at the university. The workshop, themed “Effective Communication of Environmental Research to the Public,” focused on bridging the gap between environmental research and public awareness.
Represented by Prof. Innocent Ifelunini, Deputy Director of the centre, Chukwuone said: “We consider the media as vital partners. Even when we make significant strides in research, it will not have much impact without the media. Journalists play a crucial role in translating evidence-based research into actionable public knowledge.”
He noted that REPRC-EfD has conducted numerous research projects with national and international impact, often collaborating with government agencies, stakeholders, and policymakers.
Prof. Luke Anorue of the Department of Mass Communication, UNN, highlighted the importance of interpreting research for public communication. Speaking on “Interpreting Environmental Research for Public Communication,” Anorue said environmental research outputs must be presented in simple language tailored to policymakers and the public to drive meaningful action.
Dr. Chizoba Oranu, environmentalist and research fellow at REPRC-EfD, criticised the media for underreporting environmental challenges in Nigeria. In his presentation, “Environmental Challenges in Nigeria and the Role of REPRC-EfD Nigeria in Providing Evidence-Based Solutions,” he stressed: “Journalists, as public gatekeepers, should report proactively, not just after disasters occur. Timely reporting can prevent environmental damage and promote sustainable development.”
Mr. Inya Egwu, Communication Officer at REPRC-EfD and acting Public Relations Officer of UNN, urged journalists to adopt data-driven reporting. He explained that data journalism uses large datasets to uncover trends, explain complex issues, and present findings visually through infographics, charts, tables, and interactive maps, producing objective and verifiable news stories.
The workshop was attended by journalists from various media organisations across the country.
