By Peace Udugba
MTN Nigeria has announced the selection of 25 media practitioners and digital content creators for the fifth cohort of its Media Innovation Programme (MIP), reaffirming its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s media industry through capacity building, innovation, and leadership development.
The Media Innovation Programme, implemented in partnership with Pan-Atlantic University’s School of Media and Communication, continues to provide journalists, broadcasters, and digital content creators with the skills, exposure, and mentorship needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape.
The 2026 fellows were selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants across print, broadcast, digital media, and content creation, reflecting the growing reputation and influence of the programme within the industry. In commemoration of the telecommunications company’s 25th anniversary, the number of fellows was increased from 20 in previous editions to 25 this year.
Speaking during the opening session of the programme, 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. This programme is an adventure in learning, one that challenges participants to reconsider assumptions, revise opinions, rethink ideas, and ultimately grow both professionally and personally,” he said.
Also speaking, Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya encouraged the fellows to see the programme as more than a professional milestone, describing it as a transformative experience designed to prepare them to make meaningful contributions to the media industry and society.
“The media space today faces significant challenges, and this programme equips participants not just for personal development, but to make a real difference. Beyond skills and exposure, we place strong emphasis on values such as truth, honesty, ethics, and responsibility to society. We hope every fellow leaves this programme better prepared to contribute significantly to the future of media,” he said.
The selected fellows for the fifth cohort are:
Agbetiloye David Adekunle (Senior Reporter, Business Insider Africa)
Adeniyi Fatima Adetoke (Content Writer, NotJustOk)
Adetola Kayode (State House Correspondent/News Anchor, Lagos Television)
Ajibola Tolulope (Presenter, Silverbird Television)
Aliyu Usman (Assistant Chief Correspondent/Editor, News Agency of Nigeria)
Augoye Jayne (Arts, Entertainment and Culture Editor, Premium Times)
Auwal Muhammad Ibrahim (Senior Editor, Halal Reporters)
Collins Christopher (Programmes Producer, News Central Television)
Dan-Ikpoyi Veronica (Senior Anchor, TVC Communications)
Dike Chiamaka Patricia (Broadcast Journalist, BBC News)
Eluemunoh David (Digital Content Creator)
Eseimokumoh Denise Loliaba (Editor-in-Chief, Marie Claire Nigeria)
Fosudo Oluwafisayo (Digital Content Creator)
Godfrey Progress (Reporter, Vanguard Media Limited)
Itiafe Glory Ugonma (Broadcast Journalist, Diamond 88.5 FM)
Kasali Segun (ICT Correspondent, Nigerian Tribune)
Ofonedu Sarah (On-Air Personality, Inspiration FM)
Okamgba Justice (Reporter, The Punch)
Onwuka Emmanuel (Presenter and Executive Producer, Nigeria Info FM)
Oyesanmi Ifeduyi (Managing Editor, TechCabal)
Sabastine Emmanuel (Sports Commentator, Team 33 Production)
Taiwo Kafilat (Data Journalist, Media Trust Group)
Thomas-Odia Ijeoma (Editor, The Guardian Woman, The Guardian)
Ugwu Amarachukwu Deborah (On-Air Personality, Rhythm 93.7 FM Port Harcourt)
Ukachukwu Nneka (Editor/Producer, Voice of Nigeria)
Over the years, the Media Innovation Programme has evolved into one of Nigeria’s leading media fellowships, offering participants access to industry experts, structured mentorship, hands-on learning experiences, and global best practices in media and communication.
The six-month programme commenced on Monday, May 18, 2026. During the fellowship, participants will undergo intensive training focused on media innovation, digital transformation, strategic communication, storytelling, and leadership development, both in Nigeria and during a one-week study visit to South Africa.
MTN Nigeria reiterated its commitment to supporting journalism and advancing media excellence in Nigeria while empowering professionals shaping critical conversations across the continent.
