MRA trains journalists on use of FOIA for investigative reportage

A non-governmental organization (NGO) championing media freedom and information access in Nigeria, Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has emphasized the importance of strengthening the investigative capacity of journalists to enhance accountability reportage.

The Executive Director of MRA, Mr. Edetaen Ojo, stated this on Thursday at a two-day training for 25 journalists in Kaduna organized by the NGO.

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Ojo said the participants at the training will be equipped with essential skills to harness the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act effectively.

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The MRA boss underscored the FOI Act’s vital role in empowering journalists to uncover corruption, maladministration, human rights violations, and societal injustices.

He urged the participants to utilize MRA’s online resources, including its FOI portal, manual, case law database, and litigation fund, to bolster their journalistic endeavors.

“Having a better understanding of the FOI will help in your daily reporting, not just investigation. As a journalist, it is very important for you to understand the FOI ACT and put it to good use, ‘’Mr. Edetaen Ojo stressed.

SOLACEBASE reports that the participants delved into multifaceted discussions concerning the FOI Act, exploring its intricacies, implementation challenges, and its pivotal role in fostering accountability and transparency both in public and private sectors.

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The training organized by MRA is supported by the MacArthur Foundation through the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ).