MTN Nigeria Announces Fellows for the 2024 Media Innovation Programme MTN Nigeria, in collaboration with the Pan-Atlantic University, has unveiled the 20 distinguished media professionals selected for the third edition of the Media Innovation Programme (MIP). This initiative aims to foster innovation and elevate standards within the Nigerian media industry.
After an intense selection process, which ran from March 23 to April 10, 2024, the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University carefully reviewed thousands of applications. The successful candidates, noted for their exceptional essays, embarked on their journey as MIP Fellows starting May 20, 2024, at the university.
Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, Dean of the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University, emphasized the significance of the program in the current media landscape. “This program is a testament to the transformative power of technology in today’s world. We are thrilled to partner with MTN Nigeria in empowering these talented individuals through the Media Innovation Programme. Our goal is to cultivate a new generation of media professionals who will drive innovation and uphold excellence,” he said.
The MTN Media Innovation Programme spans six weeks over six months and is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of media practitioners. Participants will delve into the evolving dynamics of the media industry and learn how to leverage technology to produce impactful content.
Tobe Okigbo, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Nigeria, addressed the fellows, underscoring the vital role of media in society. “MTN Nigeria understands the crucial role media plays in shaping societal narratives. Our Media Innovation Programme reflects our commitment to empowering media professionals and nurturing innovation within the industry. A vibrant and independent press is the cornerstone of a thriving society. Through MIP, we aim to equip these professionals with the skills needed to excel in the fast-changing media landscape and to tell the stories that matter.”
This fully-funded fellowship includes a study trip to the University of Johannesburg in South Africa, visits to the South African Broadcasting Station, innovation hubs, and a tour of the MTN Group Headquarters in Sandton. These experiences are designed to inspire the fellows and provide them with a global perspective on media practices.
The 2024 MTN Media Innovation Programme fellows are:
- Anthony Obakeye, Producer/Reporter, CNBC Africa
- Pius Chidiebere, Anchor, Signature Television
- Oluwadunsin Sanya, Senior Content Associate, BellaNaija
- Nkechi Ogbonna, Senior Journalist Reporter, BBC West Africa
- Blessing Agbeetan, Assistant Programme Manager, Women Radio 91.7 FM
- Aigbe Augustus, OAP/Producer, Cool FM
- Chiemelie Ezeobi, Group Features Editor, Thisday Newspapers
- Stephen Angbulu, State House Correspondent, Punch Newspapers
- Rahaman Toheeb, Editor-in-Chief, Legit
- Juliet Tontoye Pere-ere, General Manager/Broadcaster, Royals Roots FM
- Chioma Chukwuemeka, Lead News, Sapientia International Media Centre
- Ebunoluwa Dosunmu, Content Creator
- Ayodele Ayokunle, Managing Director, Rock FM Jalingo and Taraba Truth
- Oluwatomisin Amokeoja, Staff Writer, Forbes Africa
- Moninkanola Ogidan, News Anchor/Editor/Presenter, Adaba FM
- Johnstone Kpilaakaa, Senior Tech Reporter, BCSL – Bendada.com
- Nifemi Oguntoye, Deputy Head of Presentation, TVC Communications
- Prince Osuagwu, ICT Editor, Vanguard Newspapers
- Omonike Babatunde, Broadcaster, Bright Broadcasting Ltd
- Lucas Ajanaku, Assistant Business/Head, ICT Desk, The Nation Newspapers
As the third edition of the Media Innovation Programme gets underway, MTN continues to solidify its commitment to enhancing the Nigerian media landscape and supporting technology-driven storytelling.