ICRC trains over 20 Kano journalists on first aid

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) kicked off a two-day first aid training workshop for over 20 journalists in Kano on Wednesday.

Aliyu Dawobe, Public Relations Officer for the ICRC, spoke at the event. He explained that the training aimed to strengthen the journalists’ knowledge of handling pre-hospital injuries and basic first aid techniques.

“This training equips media professionals with the skills to address some of the fatalities that can occur during emergencies,” Dawobe said.

 “It also builds the capacity of reporters to operate safely in challenging environments.”

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“The ICRC is a neutral, impartial, and independent humanitarian organization that protects the dignity of people affected by armed conflict and violence. Established in over 100 countries worldwide, the ICRC has been working in Nigeria since 2010.”

“We collaborate with the Nigerian Red Cross to provide humanitarian support to those affected by armed conflict and violence in many parts of the country, particularly in the northeast,” Dawobe added.

The ICRC recognises the crucial role journalists play in delivering critical information during conflict zones. They understand the safety risks journalists face while reporting, including potential injuries and even death.

Alh Musa D Abdullahi, the Kano State branch executive secretary of the Nigerian Red Cross, also spoke at the event. He emphasized the importance and timeliness of the training.

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“Journalists are always present, informing and educating the public,” Abdullahi said. “We are very happy that you have acquired this life saving knowledge. We believe you will be able to save lives at any given time.”

Aisha Ibrahim, a journalist who participated in the training, expressed her gratitude to the ICRC for organizing the workshop. 

She pledged to share the acquired knowledge with her colleagues.

The ICRC concluded the training by distributing first-aid kits to the participating journalists, enabling them to be prepared to respond to emergencies.