The Media Career Development Network, in partnership with the United States Consulate General in Lagos, has concluded its sixth journalism clinic, with a strong call on journalists to simplify complex technology issues for public understanding.
The training, held on Thursday, April 16th, marked the final session in the current series and brought together emerging journalists to strengthen capacity in reporting Nigeria’s fast-growing technology ecosystem.
Facilitator of the session and Founder of The Communique, David Adeleke, emphasised the need for more people-focused technology stories. He noted that while technology shapes everyday life, its impact is not adequately reflected in media reporting.
Additionally, Executive Director of MCDN, Lekan Otufodunrin, described the clinic as part of a broader effort to strengthen journalism practice in Nigeria, especially in specialised reporting areas. He explained that the programme, which began in April 2025, covered investigative journalism, media law and ethics, multimedia storytelling, development reporting, and business journalism.
He stressed that technology now cuts across all aspects of life, making it essential for journalists across different beats to integrate tech reporting into their work. He further assured participants of continued mentorship and access to a network of past trainees even after the programme’s conclusion.
Meanwhile, the United States Consul General in Lagos, Rick Swart, described technology reporting as largely unexplored terrain. However, he underscored the vital role of journalists in helping audiences understand how technology shapes their lives.
He highlighted the growing influence of technology in governance, economic growth, and daily living. He added that U.S. venture capital contributes over 60 percent of startup funding in Nigeria, while more than 80 percent of Nigerian tech startups are incorporated in the United States.
Furthermore, Swart pointed to ongoing collaborations between Nigeria and the United States in fintech, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure, alongside training initiatives and innovation hubs supporting young Nigerians.
He urged journalists not to be intimidated by technical language, stressing that their core responsibility remains translating complexity into clarity for the public.
Participants at the training say the programme has reshaped their approach to technology reporting. A broadcast journalist with LTV, Aminat Elegushi, noted that the sessions have helped her focus more on the human angle of tech stories rather than just technical concepts. Similarly, a journalist with TVC News, Emmanuel Ochayi, said the training has better positioned him to approach stories from a people-centred perspective. Additionally, business journalist, Feyishola Jaiyesimi, described the clinic as insightful, adding that it has strengthened her understanding of how technology intersects with economic reporting and everyday realities.
