A fact-checking training has been held for a group of journalists in Niger state by a Dubawa Fact-Checking Fellow, Justina Asishana.
The two-day training focused on skills needed for fact-checking including the difference between fact-checking and news reporting, how to source for claims and what claims are fact-checkable.
The participants also learnt about what claims are not, how to write and edit fact check reports and verification tools.
According to the Trainer, the training was to educate journalists in Niger state on the need to embark on fact-checking which she said is the modern aspect of accountability journalism.
“The reason for fact-checking is to ensure that the citizens have the clear and correct information that will enable them to make informed decisions. It is also to ensure that politicians and influential people do not make false claims in a bid to sway the people in their favour.”
Ashishana who is the state correspondent of The Nation Newspaper urged the participants not to see fact- checking as a means to witch-hunt anyone but to hold our leaders accountable for what they say.
At the end of the training, the participants appreciated the training and expressed the desire to learn more.
Hamza Waziri from Newsline commended the trainer for taking out time to educate them on fact-checking.
“Thank you is not befitting for u! I just pray that Allah will give me the wisdom on how to describe and appreciate your kind gesture.”
Emperor Simon from Channels Television thanked Ashishana for sharing such “ priceless” knowledge with them.
“I commend your selflessness and commitment to human resource development.”
Dan Atori of New Telegraph Newspaper said he is now ready to embark on fact-checking to ensure that leaders in Niger state stop making claims that are not true.
