Lagos: Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, has organised a capacity-building programme on precision and data journalism to strengthen evidence-based reporting and improve newsroom accuracy. Its Chairman, Mr Adeleye Ajayi, while speaking at the training in Lagos, introduced participants to the concept and importance of data and precision journalism in modern news reporting.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr Ajayi explained that precision journalism involves applying social and behavioural science research methods, including data analysis, surveys, and computer-assisted reporting, to enhance the accuracy, depth, and objectivity of news coverage. He highlighted that this approach allows journalists to analyse and quantify social and political trends using verifiable data, urging participants to apply the skills acquired in their newsrooms. The council plans to organise additional training programmes.
Mr Lekan Otufodunrin, Executive Director of the Media Career Development Network, emphasised the growing importance of precision journalism in combating misinformation in the digital era. He described it as an evidence-based approach that strengthens reporting by using verifiable figures to analyse trends, establish correlations, and support projections. Unlike traditional narrative-driven reporting, data journalism requires journalists to source datasets and present information using charts, graphs, and other analytical tools to enhance public understanding.
Otufodunrin noted the rise of misinformation, particularly on digital platforms, making data-driven reporting more essential. He urged journalists to seek numbers and figures to verify claims and pointed out that although technology has improved access to information, challenges such as limited access to datasets and institutional reluctance to release information persist. He advised newsrooms to maintain internal data archives and conduct skills audits to identify staff capable of handling data analysis roles.
He stressed the importance of continuous training and urged media organisations to prioritise staff development while encouraging journalists to take personal responsibility for their professional growth. According to him, a well-trained workforce enhances content quality, credibility, and public trust in the media.
Participants commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful. Mr John Iwori, Publisher of MaritimeBits, highlighted the importance of scrutinising and verifying data before reporting, while Mrs Chinyere Anyanwu of the Daily Sun expressed confidence that the knowledge gained would improve the depth and credibility of her reports.