Journalism is not blogging. Content creation are different information types. Understanding how journalistic content is distinct yet significant in the digital age, gives journalists a better approach in reaching the interests of the public it serves based on truth, fact and balance reportage.
Creative Writint vs Longform Journalism and the power of language to Unite or divide.
“In the digital era, the democratization of information has empowered millions worldwide, breaking down traditional barriers to access and sharing. Digital platforms have further amplified this freedom, allowing users to personalize and engage with content on an unprecedented scale. This shift has challenged the dominance of conventional news media, reducing their vulnerability to censorship and manipulation by oppressive regimes and special interests.
However, the unchecked proliferation of digital content has also enabled the spread of misinformation, disinformation, propaganda, and conspiracy theories on a massive scale. The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and chatbots has exponentially increased the reach and influence of these harmful narratives, posing significant threats to informed decision-making, social cohesion, and democratic values.
As we navigate this complex landscape, it’s essential to recognize the critical role of responsible journalism in combating the erosion of truth and promoting a well-informed public discourse. By embracing innovative storytelling formats, fact-checking initiatives, and collaborative reporting efforts, the news media can reclaim its role as a trusted guardian of fact-based information and a champion of democratic accountability.”
Every May 28 marks world menstrual hygiene day, it’s a day to raise awareness about the importance of good menstrual hygiene, ensure access to menstrual products for all, and break the stigmas associated with menstruation. But it’s quite unfortunate we are yet to achieve this, especially in Nigeria.
Photo Credit: Alexander Sergienko.
Plans to unveil an ambitious strategy to decommission notorious dump sites across Lagos state in the wake of air pollution and cholera outbreak within the next 18 months is to commence.
In a stark revelation on the nature of air quality in Lagos, findings revealed the alarming extent of air pollution in Lagos. In a 15-kilometer run from Maryland to Ikeja which not only brought community together but also collected real-time data, revealing no areas with good air quality and highlighting severe pollution along major routes, the findings, with air quality ranging from moderate to very unhealthy air, underscored the urgent need for comprehensive action to combat the hazardous air conditions threatening the health of Lagos residents.
By Collins Odigie Ojiehanor
. . . 30,000 medical doctors necessary to meet its healthcare needs . . .
as Africa contends with the challenges of rapid urbanization and industrialization, air quality management has become a critical public health and environmental concern. With cities expanding at an unprecedented pace and industrial activities intensifying, the continent faces a pivotal moment where sustainable development must be balanced with the imperative of safeguarding air quality.
Across Africa, air pollution levels are rising alarmingly, posing significant health risks to millions of residents. Chief pollutants, including particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone, are increasingly being detected in urban and peri-urban areas. These pollutants, emanating from sources such as vehicular emissions, industrial discharges, open burning of waste, and domestic cooking practices, contribute to a toxic atmospheric cocktail that threatens respiratory health and exacerbates climate change.
By Ejiro Umukoro and Collins Odigie Ojiehanor
The Silent Crisis of Air Pollution and Infant Mortality is a cause for concern to us at LightRay! Media.
In the bustling city of Lagos, Nigeria, the air carries a hidden menace—one that silently claims lives and leaves a trail of devastation. According to a 2019 report by the Clean Air Fund, nearly 23,900 premature deaths in Lagos were directly linked to air pollution. Shockingly, this toll surpasses fatalities from malaria and HIV/AIDS combined.
But the impact extends beyond Lagos. At the national level, air pollution-related deaths reached a staggering 198,000, outpacing malaria fatalities (191,000) and more than doubling those caused by HIV/AIDS (82,000). These numbers paint a grim picture of a crisis that demands urgent attention.
Air pollution is the unseen threat to new lives
When pregnant mothers breathe in polluted air, harmful impurities infiltrate the placenta, affecting fetal organ development. By the time these babies enter the world, they bear the burden of poor air quality—a burden that can be fatal. Indeed, air pollution now ranks as the second largest risk factor for neonatal death.
But it’s not just neonates who suffer. Over 700,000 children worldwide succumb annually due to the insidious effects of air pollution. The heaviest burden falls on Africa and South Asia, where young lives hang in the balance.
As we grapple with this invisible menace, we must recognize that every breath matters. The air we breathe shapes our future, and safeguarding it is a collective responsibility. Let us raise our voices, advocate for cleaner air, and protect the most vulnerable among us—our children.
This is our editorial position. Our correspondent, Collins Odigie Ojiehanor and Publisher, Lady Ejiro Umukoro, provides more insight into this investigative report.
Picture of the a metal scrap worker burning insulated copper wires to collect copper in Ghana. Credit: Muntaka Chasant / Wikimedia Commons
The #DontPoliceMySpeech protest at the Federal Ministry of Justice saw a remarkable turnout! We were thrilled to see a large number of young journalists, under 30, passionately advocating for press freedom. The significant representation of women, outnumbering men, was an encouraging sign of a brighter future for journalism an women’s advocacy within the media landscape. As we fight for the rights of journalists and citizens alike, it’s heartening to see the next generation of journalists stepping up to carry the baton. Together, we’ll ensure the power of the pen and voice never fades. #All4One&One4All” – ED, LightRay! Media.
The Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu presided.