The United States Consulate in Lagos has collaborated with the Media Career Development Network (MCDN) to train 21 mid-level journalists in investigative journalism as part of a new one-year programme.
The initiative, under MCDN’s Bi-Monthly Journalism Clinic, is designed to strengthen the skills of journalists with under five years of experience by providing intensive, hands-on sessions in investigative methods, journalistic ethics, and accountability reporting.
Speaking at the flag-off event held at the US Consulate on Tuesday, MCDN Executive Director, Lekan Otufodunrin, revealed that over 100 applications were received, out of which 21 candidates were shortlisted for the maiden edition.
Otufodunrin noted that the goal is to train up to 150 emerging and mid-career journalists within the year, equipping them with practical knowledge and access to mentorship to improve public-interest reporting.
He added that beyond the sessions, participants will benefit from tailored career evaluations and ongoing guidance through MCDN’s professional network.
During the opening clinic, participants watched an investigative documentary and engaged in two technical sessions facilitated by Punch Weekend Editor, Samson Folarin, and SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, represented by Otufodunrin.
Acting Consul General JoEllen Gorg, in her address, applauded the journalists’ commitment to democracy, stressing that the press remains vital to transparency and governance.
“Journalists are essential to every society. You inform the public, expose wrongdoing, and hold leaders to account,” Gorg said. “Without investigative journalism, democratic foundations are compromised.”
She emphasised that the programme is part of the US Mission’s ongoing support for media professionals in Nigeria.
“People rely on your work to make informed choices—about health, security, and leadership,” she added.
This latest initiative builds on the Consulate’s previous engagement, which trained over 150 journalists on election coverage ahead of the 2023 general elections.
The clinic’s bi-monthly workshops explore a range of themes, including governance reporting, fiscal transparency, public health, and effective use of open-source data, social platforms, and confidential sources.
Also speaking at the event, Julie McKay, Public Affairs Officer at the Consulate, urged attendees to explore other US-backed opportunities like the Mandela Washington Fellowship, Education USA, the International Visitors Leadership Programme (IVLP), and resources from American Spaces nationwide.
“We want journalists to know these tools are available — from free internet and e-libraries to exchange programmes,” McKay said. “You play a vital role in defending free speech and expression — thank you for what you do.”
On the sidelines, MCDN Programme Manager, Dayo Emmanuel, explained that participants were chosen based on their passion for growth and their commitment to promoting democratic values through impactful journalism.
He disclosed that future clinic sessions will be held both physically and online to reach reporters across the country.
