GEF-UNIDO Hosts Media Training on Industrial Sustainability Reporting in Kano
By Nana Aisha Muhammad
KANO — Kano on Wednesday served as the venue for a media training programme aimed at strengthening industrial sustainability reporting, with journalists drawn from the industry, environment, and development beats participating in the capacity-building workshop.
The programme, sponsored by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), was organised to close persistent knowledge gaps that limit accurate and informed reporting on industrial energy use, sustainability practices, and climate-related interventions.
Speaking during the session, a Communication Expert, Mrs Mojisola Osiboye, underscored the responsibility of the media in simplifying complex industrial and environmental issues for public understanding. She said journalists must go beyond surface-level reporting to ensure accuracy and impact.
Mrs Osiboye emphasised the need for evidence-based journalism, the use of credible data sources, and proper context when reporting on policies and industrial programmes.
“The concept here differs from normal news reporting that centred on PR style; in this case you are expected to ask questions, probe the sources of the news, and demand for evidence before going to the press because the essence is to clearly educate the public,” she said.
She explained that the workshop was designed specifically to strengthen industrial sustainability reporting through targeted training on Industrial Energy Efficiency (IEE) and Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) methodologies.
According to her, informed and knowledgeable media engagement plays a critical role in shaping public perception and influencing policy discussions on industrial sustainability.
“By equipping journalists with practical knowledge of IEE and RECP, the initiative aims to promote accountability, encourage adoption of efficient practices by industries, and support transparent communication of development programmes,” Mrs Osiboye added.
Also speaking at the event, an Energy Expert, Mr Chukwudubem Anyadiegwu, highlighted the economic and environmental benefits of improved energy management in industrial operations. He explained that energy audits, adoption of efficient technologies, and better operational practices can significantly reduce production costs, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve industrial competitiveness, particularly in developing economies.
Mr Anyadiegwu further introduced participants to the principles of Industrial Energy Efficiency, noting that the approach focuses on reducing energy consumption without compromising productivity.
In his presentation on the Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production methodology, he noted that RECP encourages optimal use of materials, water, and energy while reducing waste and pollution at source. He said the approach aligns with global sustainability standards and supports responsible and environmentally sound industrial growth.