BUK Professor Emphasises Fact Verification as Pillar of Credible Journalism
By Maikudi Muhammad Marafa
A Professor of Information and Media Studies at Bayero University Kano (BUK), Prof. Nura Ibrahim, has urged online journalists to uphold responsible engagement and respect for privacy in the performance of their professional duties.
Prof. Ibrahim made the call while presenting a paper at a two-day retreat organised for members of the Kano Online Media Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), held in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.
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The retreat, sponsored by the Kano State Government through the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, was organised under the theme “Strengthening Digital Journalism Through Ethical Practice and Responsible Online Engagement,” and aimed at enhancing the professional capacity of online journalists.
During his presentation, the BUK don emphasised the need for balanced reportage, warning against the use of inflammatory language, while calling on journalists to promote inclusivity, respect cultural and religious sensitivities, and avoid incitement through their reports.
He further stressed the importance of fact verification, prompt correction of errors, and regular content updates to sustain public trust, while encouraging journalists to combat misinformation through accurate explanations, credible sources, and the responsible use of digital and search engine optimisation tools without compromising ethical standards.
