MTN Nigeria Unveils 25 Fellows for 2026 Media Innovation Programme

MTN Nigeria has announced the selection of 25 media practitioners and digital content creators for the fifth cohort of its Media Innovation Programme (MIP), further strengthening its commitment to journalism development, digital storytelling, and media leadership in Nigeria.

Implemented in partnership with the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, the programme continues to provide journalists, broadcasters, and digital creators with the skills, mentorship, and industry exposure needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape.

The 2026 cohort was selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants spanning print, broadcast, digital media, and content creation, underscoring the growing reputation and impact of the fellowship across Nigeria’s media industry.

To commemorate MTN Nigeria’s 25th anniversary, the fellowship was expanded from 20 participants in previous editions to 25 fellows this year.

Speaking during the opening session of the programme, Tobe Okigbo described the initiative as a reflection of MTN’s enduring commitment to innovation, partnerships, and continuous learning.

“At MTN Nigeria, innovation, insight, knowledge, skills, and partnership matter deeply to us. The Media Innovation Programme represents all these values – a partnership not just with Pan-Atlantic University, but with every fellow.

“This programme is an adventure in learning, one that challenges participants to reconsider assumptions, revise opinions, rethink ideas, and ultimately grow both professionally and personally,” he said.

Also addressing the fellows, Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya encouraged participants to see the programme as more than a professional achievement, describing it as a transformative experience aimed at preparing them to contribute meaningfully to society and the media industry.

“The media space today faces significant challenges, and this programme equips participants not just for personal development, but to make a real difference. Beyond skills and exposure, we place strong emphasis on values such as truth, honesty, ethics, and responsibility to society,” he noted.

Selected Fellows for the 2026 MTN Media Innovation Programme

The selected fellows include:

Agbetiloye David Adekunle – Senior Reporter, Business Insider Africa
Adeniyi Fatima Adetoke – Content Writer, NotJustOk
Adetola Kayode – State House Correspondent/News Anchor, Lagos Television
Ajibola Tolulope – Presenter, Silverbird Television
Aliyu Usman – Assistant Chief Correspondent/Editor, News Agency of Nigeria
Augoye Jayne – Arts, Entertainment and Culture Editor, Premium Times
Auwal Muhammad Ibrahim – Senior Editor, Halal Reporters
Collins Christopher – Programmes Producer, News Central Television
Dan-Ikpoyi Veronica – Senior Anchor, TVC Communications
Dike Chiamaka Patricia – Broadcast Journalist, BBC News
Eluemunoh David – Digital Content Creator
Eseimokumoh Denise Loliaba – Editor-in-Chief, Marie Claire Nigeria
Fosudo Oluwafisayo – Digital Content Creator
Godfrey Progress – Reporter, Vanguard Media Limited
Itiafe Glory Ugonma – Broadcast Journalist, Diamond 88.5 FM
Kasali Segun – ICT Correspondent, Nigerian Tribune
Ofonedu Sarah – On-Air Personality, Inspiration FM
Okamgba Justice – Reporter, The Punch
Onwuka Emmanuel – Presenter & Executive Producer, Nigeria Info FM
Oyesanmi Ifeduyi – Managing Editor, TechCabal
Sabastine Emmanuel – Sports Commentator, Team 33 Production
Taiwo Kafilat – Data Journalist, Media Trust Group
Thomas-Odia Ijeoma – Editor, The Guardian Woman, The Guardian
Ugwu Amarachukwu Deborah – On-Air Personality, Rhythm 93.7 FM PH
Ukachukwu Nneka – Editor/Producer, Voice of Nigeria

Over the years, the MTN Media Innovation Programme has evolved into one of Nigeria’s leading media fellowships, offering participants access to industry experts, mentorship opportunities, practical learning experiences, and global best practices in media and communication.

The six-month programme commenced on Monday, May 18, 2026, and will expose fellows to intensive training in media innovation, digital transformation, strategic communication, storytelling, and leadership development. Participants will also embark on a one-week study visit to South Africa as part of the fellowship experience.

MTN Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to supporting journalism and advancing media excellence while empowering professionals shaping important conversations across Africa.