MIIA announces free mentoring and training for African journalists

Media Integrity Initiative Africa (MIIA) has been launched to advance ethical journalism and elevate professionalism throughout the African media landscape.

This non-governmental organization brings together 20 seasoned media professionals who will provide free training, mentorship, and leadership development to journalists across the continent. Through complimentary online courses and guidance, MIIA aims to equip media practitioners with the skills essential for responsible and ethical reporting.

MIIA Coordinator Femi Akintunde-Johnson emphasized on Wednesday that the initiative is founded on the principle of “training the trainers and the trainable”—ensuring that journalists not only achieve individual excellence but also become role models and influential figures within the industry.

To this end, MIIA has assembled a diverse team of facilitators, including prominent editors, broadcasters, media executives, and journalism scholars. The roster features names such as Lanre Ìdòwú, Richard Akinnola, Ohi Alegbe, Tony Onyima, Tokunbo Ojekunle, Adeboye Ola, Azu Ishiekwene, Seun Olagunju, Marcel Okeke, Lekan Otufodunrin, Yakubu Lawal, Fisayo Soyombo, Michael Effiong, Deji Balogun, Yinka Shokunbi, Monday Ashibogwu, Olumide Iyanda, Johnson Onime, Lanre Arogundade, and Alex Ogundadegbe.

All training sessions will be conducted virtually, ensuring unrestricted access for aspiring and established media professionals across Africa. Participation is entirely free, with no financial, political, or ideological barriers—provided that enrollees are Africans engaged in or interested in media-related careers.

“We are building a future where African media is defined by trust, accuracy, and a steadfast commitment to the public good,” said Akintunde-Johnson. “Our facilitators are not just instructors; they are industry icons with decades of experience, ready to ensure that the next generation of journalists upholds the highest ethical and professional standards.”

MIIA is now opening enrolment for its inaugural training sessions scheduled to begin in April 2025. The initiative invites media professionals, students, and enthusiasts to seize this unique opportunity to learn from some of the brightest minds in African journalism.

With the right training and mentorship, MIIA is set to transform the African media landscape—one principled journalist at a time. To explore the initiative’s vision, programs, and facilitator lineup, visit the newly launched MIIA website.