DW Hausa correspondent Ibrahima Yakubu recognised for conflict-sensitive reporting and role in strengthening religious harmony in Nigeria

A Christian Church in Nigeria's Northwestern Kaduna State has honored a Muslim journalist for his outstanding contribution to peace Journalism, interfaith dialogue, and conflict-sensitive reporting, in a move church leaders described as a symbol of religious tolerance and National unity.

The Church of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, based in Gwagwaji Villa, Kaduna, presented the award to Ibrahima Yakubu, a correspondent with the DW Hausa Service, during a ceremony attended by religious leaders, Journalists, civil society representatives, and members of the church.

Speaking at the event, the church's General Overseer, Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru, said the recognition marked the first time the ministry had presented such an award to a Muslim Journalist, citing Yakubu's longstanding commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence through balanced and responsible reporting.

He said Yakubu's work has consistently highlighted stories that encourage dialogue, religious tolerance, reconciliation, and understanding among Nigeria's diverse ethnic and religious communities.

"This award recognizes his professionalism, fairness, and dedication to using Journalism as a tool for peacebuilding," Buru said. “His reports have helped foster mutual respect and strengthened interfaith relations at a time when such efforts are greatly needed.”

Also speaking, the church's Overseer, Reverend Dr. Maxwell Sanda, described Yakubu as an outstanding Journalist whose impact extends beyond news reporting.

According to Sanda, Yakubu has trained and mentored Journalists on peace Journalism and conflict-sensitive reporting, while producing numerous reports that promote unity, peaceful coexistence, and collaboration among faith-based organizations across Nigeria.

He said the journalist's commitment to ethical reporting has contributed to raising public awareness on the importance of dialogue in preventing conflict and promoting social cohesion.

Adding that the Journalist has been reporting peace and unity for a long period of time and hence the need to commend him and thank the German international radio and TV for providing such an opportunity for promoting peace and religious tolerance 

Receiving the award, Yakubu expressed appreciation to the church for the recognition, describing it as a powerful demonstration of mutual respect between people of different faiths.

He said the honor would inspire him to continue reporting stories that promote peace, religious harmony, and national unity, while encouraging journalists to uphold the principles of accuracy, fairness, and responsible Journalism.

The recognition comes amid continued efforts by religious and civil society organizations in Nigeria to strengthen interfaith cooperation and promote peaceful coexistence in communities affected by ethnic and religious tensions.