MTN Nigeria, in collaboration with the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University, has officially kicked off the fourth edition of its Media Innovation Programme (MIP). This initiative, which began in 2022, continues to raise the bar for media training in Nigeria by empowering professionals with the skills and exposure needed to thrive in today’s tech-driven media landscape.

This year, 20 exceptional media professionals from across print, broadcast, online platforms, and digital content creation have been selected from over 3,000 applicants to participate in the prestigious programme.

A Six-Month Journey of Innovation and Impact

The fully funded, six-month certificate programme began on May 19, 2025, and will feature a blend of classroom sessions, field visits, and real-world projects. Participants will dive deep into the evolving relationship between media and technology, exploring how tools like artificial intelligence, data, and digital platforms are transforming storytelling.

As part of the hands-on experience, fellows will also visit leading innovation hubs to explore cutting-edge tools shaping the future of media. Each participant is expected to conceptualize and develop an innovative media project capable of making a meaningful impact in Nigeria and beyond.

International Exposure & Pan-African Collaboration

A highlight of the programme is a study trip to the University of Johannesburg, where fellows will engage with key figures in the South African media, government, and business sectors. This international experience is designed not just to broaden perspectives, but also to foster collaboration between Nigeria and South Africa in shaping the future of African media.

Leadership Reflections

Speaking on the significance of the programme, Tobe Okigbo, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, expressed pride in the impact MIP has had:

“This programme started as an idea within my team and has grown into one of the most meaningful initiatives at MTN. We received over 3,000 applications, and selecting just 20 speaks volumes about the quality of talent we’re nurturing.”

Representing the Dean of the School of Media and Communication, Professor Ngozi Opara emphasized the importance of rethinking journalism in a digital-first world:

“We’re proud to partner with MTN to prepare journalists for leadership in a tech-powered, ethically conscious media space. This programme is about more than reporting news—it’s about shaping narratives that influence our society.”

Meet the 2025 MIP Fellows

Here are the brilliant media professionals who make up the 2025 MIP cohort:

• Adaku Onyenucheya – The Guardian
• Adebayo Adeyemi Micheal – AIT
• Adebayo Rasaq Abolaji – New Telegraph
• Adekeye Emmanuel Ayobami – ADAMIM ’O’ GO 93.1 FM
• Amarachi Nkechi Ubani – Channels Television
• Asukwo Oduo – Pulse Nigeria
• Blessings Mosugu – News Central TV
• Chinwe Peace Micheal – Business Day
• David Afolayan – TechNext
• Desmond Okon – THECABLE
• Edun Rebecca – Megaletrics
• Eshokeme Oludare James – Africa News
• Georgina Ndukwe-Ezeanyika – Arise News Channel
• Precious David-Ogaga – NTA
• Precious Ijeoma Igbonwelundu – The Nation
• Royal Odiri Ibeh – Leadership
• Salem King – Digital Content Creator
• Tega Onojaife – Smooth 98.1 FM
• Vanessa Ukamaka Richard-Bassey – Sparkling 92.3 FM
• Zainab Yetunde Adam – SMK Radio 96.5 FM

Final Thoughts

As Nigeria’s media industry continues to evolve, programmes like MIP play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of media leaders. With strong corporate backing from MTN and academic support from Pan-Atlantic University, the Media Innovation Programme is proving to be a powerful platform for growth, innovation, and collaboration—both within Nigeria and across Africa.

Stay tuned for more updates on the fellows’ projects and their journey through the programme.