By Ayomide Otitoju
MTN Nigeria has announced the selection of 25 media practitioners and digital content creators for the fifth cohort of its Media Innovation Programme (MIP), reinforcing its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s media industry through capacity building, innovation, and leadership development.
The programme, implemented in partnership with the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, is designed to equip journalists, broadcasters, and digital creators with the skills, exposure, and mentorship needed to thrive in a fast-evolving media landscape.
According to MTN, this year’s fellows were drawn from a highly competitive pool of applicants across print, broadcast, digital media, and content creation, reflecting the programme’s growing relevance in the industry. The 2026 cohort was also expanded from 20 to 25 fellows in commemoration of the telecoms company’s 25th anniversary.
Speaking at the commencement of the programme, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Tobe Okigbo, described the initiative as a reflection of the company’s commitment to innovation, partnership, and continuous learning.
“At MTN Nigeria, innovation, insight, knowledge, skills, and partnership matter deeply to us. The Media Innovation Programme represents all these values… a partnership not just with Pan-Atlantic University, but with every fellow,” he said.
He added that the programme is “an adventure in learning” aimed at helping participants rethink ideas and grow professionally and personally.
Also speaking, Dean of the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, said the programme goes beyond professional training, describing it as a transformative platform aimed at strengthening ethical and impactful journalism.
“The media space today faces significant challenges, and this programme equips participants not just for personal development, but to make a real difference,” he said, adding that emphasis is placed on truth, ethics, and social responsibility.
The six-month programme, which began on Monday, May 18, 2026, will feature intensive training in media innovation, digital transformation, strategic communication, storytelling, and leadership development, including a one-week study visit to South Africa.
MTN reiterated its commitment to supporting journalism and advancing media excellence in Nigeria while empowering professionals shaping conversations across the continent.
