In a strategic effort to strengthen national unity, responsible governance, and informed public discourse, the Africa Polling Institute (API), with support from the Ford Foundation, successfully hosted a four-day capacity-building workshop focused on equipping policy executives and media practitioners as champions of social cohesion in Nigeria.
The workshop, held from June 15 to 18, 2026, at Treasure Suites and Apartments, Abuja, brought together key stakeholders from government institutions, civil society organizations, academia, and the media to deepen understanding of social cohesion and its role in fostering national stability, inclusive development, and democratic governance.
The training was divided into two sessions. The first session, held on June 15 and 16, focused on policy executives, while the second session, held on June 17 and 18, was designed specifically for media practitioners under the theme:
“Equipping Media Practitioners as Champions of Social Cohesion Towards the Promotion of Responsible Journalism.” Addressing a Critical National Need
According to the Africa Polling Institute, social cohesion—the strength of relationships and sense of solidarity among members of society—is fundamental to building peaceful, resilient, and prosperous nations.
However, recent assessments have revealed significant gaps in the ability of policymakers and media professionals to effectively interpret and apply social cohesion data, public sentiment indicators, and early warning signals in decision-making and public communication.
The workshop was therefore conceived to bridge the gap between social cohesion research, policy formulation, and public discourse by providing participants with practical tools, knowledge, and collaborative platforms to translate data into meaningful action.
Speaking on the importance of the initiative, organizers emphasized that strengthening social cohesion requires active participation from both policymakers and the media, as these groups play critical roles in shaping narratives, influencing public opinion, and promoting inclusive governance.
The media-focused training featured a comprehensive six-module curriculum designed to help journalists and media professionals better understand and utilize key social cohesion indicators, including:
- National identity
- Trust and confidence in institutions
- Social justice
- Equity and inclusion
- Civic participation
- Future expectations
Participants were also equipped with practical skills to craft narratives and messages that promote social cohesion while adhering to the principles of responsible, balanced, and informed journalism.
An important component of the workshop focused on helping participants apply basic data analytics techniques using real-world national datasets, enabling journalists to strengthen evidence-based reporting and improve the quality of public discourse.
The workshop featured an impressive lineup of facilitators and subject matter experts, including:
Dr. Olusoji Adeniyi
Prof. Bell Ihua, mni
Odoh Diego Okeyondo
Dr. Helen Emore
Dr. Obiora Chukwumba
Ismail Abdulaziz
Through interactive sessions, group activities, case studies, and practical exercises, participants gained valuable insights into the intersection between data, governance, media reporting, and social cohesion.
The event attracted media practitioners and communication professionals from various organizations across Nigeria. Among the media stakeholders represented at the workshop was Africa ScoreCard, reinforcing the platform’s commitment to responsible journalism, developmental reporting, and promoting conversations that contribute to nation-building and social progress.
The workshop also served as an important platform for civic engagement, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among stakeholders working to strengthen Nigeria’s social fabric.
At the conclusion of the training, participants were presented with Certificates of Participation in recognition of their commitment to advancing social cohesion through their respective professional roles.
The event concluded with a networking reception, providing participants and facilitators the opportunity to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas, and explore future collaborations aimed at promoting peace, inclusion, and responsible public engagement across the country.
As Nigeria continues to navigate complex social, economic, and political realities, initiatives such as this underscore the importance of data-driven policymaking and responsible journalism in building trust, strengthening institutions, and fostering a more cohesive society.
By equipping both policymakers and media professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to interpret and communicate social cohesion data effectively, the Africa Polling Institute and Ford Foundation are contributing meaningfully to the ongoing effort to promote national unity, democratic governance, and sustainable development in Nigeria.
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