The U.S. Consulate General in Lagos has extended its support for the Media Career Development Network (MCDN) for a second year to strengthen the capacity of emerging Nigerian journalists through a year-long Journalism Clinic beginning in November 2026. This report reviews the impact of the earlier six bi-monthly clinics.
Months after attending the Journalism Clinic session on Business and Economy Reporting, Correspondent of BusinessDay, Feyishola Jayiesimi still clearly recalls what she learnt about financial reporting.
“In my work as a business journalist where I’m always analysing data, Mr Odinaka Anudu’s presentation immensely bettered my analysis skills,” Jayiesimi stated noting that overall, her participation in three sessions of the Clinic was “an impactful experience” for which she is genuinely grateful.
Another participant, Presenter/Reporter, Voice of the People TV, Matthew Ogunsuada said The Journalism Clinic was also an enlightening and rewarding experience.
“I particularly enjoyed the facilitators and the wealth of knowledge they shared. One session that stood out for me was Titilope Fadares’ session on promoting our journalistic work on social media,” Ogunsuada said.
“I also found the journalism stories and professional experiences shared by Mr Lekan Otufodunrin inspiring. They offered valuable lessons and renewed hope for navigating the realities of journalism today. My sincere appreciation to MCDN and the US Consulate for this impactful training and the opportunity to learn, connect and grow.”
Jaiyesimi and Ogunsuada are among over hundred early career and experienced journalists that participated in the six bi-monthly Journalism Clinics organised by the Media Career Development Network (MCDN) with the support of the US Consulate General in Lagos from February 2025 to January 2026.
Julie McKay, Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Consulate, described the initiative as part of the U.S. government’s broader effort to strengthen Nigeria’s media ecosystem. “A free and professional press is vital to any democracy,” McKay said adding that “Journalists play a crucial role in informing the public, enabling civic participation, and holding those in power accountable.”
The training, facilitated by experienced journalists on various media skills covered Technology Reporting by Founder/CEO, Communique, David I. Adeleke, Development Reporting by Team Lead, DevReporting, Mojeed Alabi and Correspondent, Premium Times, Mariam Ileyemi, and Media Law and Ethics by Legal Practitioner and Former Editor of The Punch, Mr Gbemiga Ogunleye and Editor-in-Chief, Diamond Publications, Mr Lanre Idowu.
The other sessions were on Multimedia Reporting by Culture and Travel writer, Pelu Awofeso and Founder Gen AI Titilope Fadare, Business and Economic Reporting, Former Deputy Editor, BusinessDay Odinaka Anudu and Investigative Journalism and Accountability Reporting by Editor, Weekend Titles, The Punch Samson Folarin and Deputy Director, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) Kolawole Oluwadare.
Graduate of Mass Communication from the University of Lagos who attended the training while she was Editor-in-Chief of UNILAG SUN, Blessing Famose said her participation was an experience that significantly shaped her understanding of journalism beyond the newsroom.
“The sessions, particularly those on media law and ethics, reinforced the importance of accuracy, accountability, fairness and evidence-based reporting. One lesson that has stayed with me is that being certain a story is true is not enough; a journalist must also be able to substantiate every claim with credible evidence. Learning directly from experienced media professionals challenged me to approach storytelling with greater diligence, courage and a stronger sense of responsibility.
“I consider the Journalism Clinic a valuable foundation for young journalists who desire not just to tell compelling stories, but to practise journalism with integrity, professionalism and a genuine commitment to the public interest,” she stated.
Factchecker and Assistant News Producer at TVC, Aminat Miskilu who attended most of the sessions recalled that the journalism clinic treated each session with mind-blowing precision.
“It was hands down the best way to have a wholesome experience in the profession, as the topics were specialised on various germane thematic area facilitated by seasoned experts. For me, the training and the exceptionally warm and thoughtful community have been a turning for me, and I’m grateful for the doors it has opened and the confidence I now wield in delivering in the practice.
“I can’t think of a better springboard into journalism or option to sharpen one’s expertise in the vocation as a professional.”
Following the success and impact of the bi-monthly sessions, the U.S. Consulate General has extended its support for the MCDN for a second year to strengthen the capacity of emerging Nigerian journalists through a year-long Journalism Clinic beginning in November 2026.
The expanded programme will deliver 12 monthly training sessions across multiple cities including, Lagos, Ibadan, Benin City, Port Harcourt, Calabar, Awka, and Enugu. Bringing together early-career journalists from print, online, radio, and television outlets, the programme will combine expert-led instruction, practical skills development, and opportunities to connect with experienced journalists and subject matter experts.
The initiative will equip journalists with the knowledge and skills to report more effectively on issues shaping the U.S.–Nigeria relationship, particularly trade, investment, technology, creative economy, and other areas of bilateral cooperation. The journalism clinic will strengthen participants’ understanding of freedom of expression as a cornerstone of democratic governance, prosperity, innovation, and long-term economic development.
Executive Director of MCDN, Lekan Otufodunrin, commended the U.S. government for its commitment to supporting independent journalism in Nigeria. “We appreciate the opportunity to provide the training and networking opportunity for journalists in Nigeria to enhance their skills by learning from accomplished journalists and experts who will lead the various sessions,” Otufodunrin stated.
Interested journalists can apply filling this form https://forms.gle/uVQ8DkuquQVBsjQh8 with details of their reporting interests. Selected participants will be notified ahead of each monthly session.
The Media Career Development Network is a journalism training and mentoring organization committed to helping media professionals build stronger, more sustainable, and fulfilling careers