The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has concluded a two-day capacity-building workshop aimed at addressing harmful narratives, misinformation, and online stigma faced by People with Dwarfism in the digital space.
The Independent Mirror reports that the training, held from Saturday to Sunday, focused on equipping participants with practical digital skills for safe and effective online engagement, while also strengthening their understanding of digital rights.
Speaking at the opening of the programme, the Executive Director of CITAD, Malam Y. Z. Ya’u, represented by the organisation’s Digital Rights Officer, Mr Ali Sabo, underscored the importance of inclusive digital empowerment.
He said People with Dwarfism are often exposed to online abuse, stereotyping, and misrepresentation, which limit their full participation on digital platforms.
“The training is designed to build participants’ capacity in social media usage, online safety, and digital rights, enabling them to challenge misinformation and take control of their narratives,” Sabo said.
He added that when used responsibly, digital platforms could serve as powerful tools for advocacy, visibility, and community mobilisation.
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Sabo encouraged participants to leverage social media to share their experiences, educate the public, and counter negative stereotypes, while remaining mindful of the legal and ethical frameworks guiding online engagement.
One of the facilitators, Mr Buhari Abba, advised participants to use social media constructively by creating meaningful and informative content that promotes inclusion and awareness.
“Digital literacy is crucial in curbing misinformation and reducing online conflicts,” Abba said.
In another session, Mr Hamza Fagge highlighted the legal protections available to Persons with Disabilities, explaining relevant disability laws and how they can be applied to address discrimination, harassment, and rights violations, both online and offline.
Participants, including Fiddausi Umar and Mr Sani Bello, commended CITAD for organising the workshop, describing it as timely and empowering.
Umar said the programme had boosted their confidence and provided them with the skills needed to engage safely online and speak out against harmful content.
Bello added that the knowledge gained would strengthen their advocacy efforts and enable them to better defend their rights in digital spaces.
