The Challenge Initiative (TCI), an NGO, on Wednesday commenced the training of 30 journalists and local government information officers in Bauchi State on Child Birth Spacing (CBS) advocacy and information dissemination.
The State Programme Coordinator of the NGO, Mrs Rabi Ekele, said that the three-day event was meant to build the capacity of journalists on the new approach for behavioural change on CBS.
“TCI have renovated and equipped 20 primary healthcare centers in Bauchi, Toro, Ningi, Alakleri and Katagum local government areas.
“The media has the trust of the public and all stakeholders, so journalists are key in creating information for the people.
“The renovation took place within 72 hours using the Ward Development Committee for direct labour and accountability, “she said.
Ekele commended the state government for committing resources and funds towards CBS activities.
The wife of Bauchi State Governor, Dr Aisha Mohammed, who declared the training open, said that it was important for journalists to be equipped with knowledge on public health issues.
Mohammed said all hands must be on deck to ensure that the residents had access to quality healthcare services.
She said that child birth spacing was a step in the right direction, adding that it would promote healthy living and a healthy society.
Mrs Bulak Afsa, Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Bauchi Chapter, said that the practice of CBS would safeguard the lives of mothers and babies in the state.
