The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna branch, has pledged its support to the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The union expressed its commitment to amplifying the Institute’s activities and enhancing public awareness of its contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
This was revealed during a courtesy visit by the NUJ leadership to the Executive Director of NAERLS, Prof. Y. A. Sani at the institute’s headquarters. The delegation, led by Mal. Sani Aliyu, Vice Chairman of the NUJ Kaduna branch, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the media and NAERLS in promoting agricultural innovation and extension services.
During the visit, Mal. Sani Aliyu emphasized the need for specialized training in agricultural reporting. He noted the challenges journalists face in translating technical agricultural terminology into accessible language for the general public.
“We are here to not only show our solidarity with the institute but also to request training programmes that will equip journalists with the knowledge and skills to report agricultural developments effectively,” said Aliyu. He stressed that clear and comprehensive reporting could significantly enhance the impact of NAERLS’ initiatives on farmers and other stakeholders.
Prof. Y. A. Sani welcomed the proposal, acknowledging the critical role of the media in disseminating agricultural knowledge. “Your request aligns perfectly with our mandate as an institute. Capacity building and knowledge dissemination are at the core of what we do,” he stated.
Prof. Sani highlighted NAERLS’ unique position as a national institute with the responsibility of coordinating agricultural extension services in Nigeria. He explained that the institute collaborates with various agricultural research centres to adapt and disseminate proven technologies to farmers and stakeholders.
“Empowering journalists to effectively communicate our work will not only amplify our reach but also ensure that farmers and policymakers benefit from accurate and timely information,” the Executive Director added.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing optimism about future collaborations. Plans for a series of workshops on agricultural reporting and media engagement were discussed, focusing on simplifying complex agricultural terms and ensuring balanced, impactful coverage of NAERLS’ projects.
The visit underscores the importance of the media in driving agricultural transformation. By fostering a better understanding of agricultural research and extension among journalists, NAERLS hopes to bridge the gap between scientific advancements and the everyday realities of Nigerian farmers.
The NUJ’s support is seen as a strategic move to improve public engagement and awareness of NAERLS’ mission to enhance agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods nationwide.
