The outlook of the Nigerian press needs to go beyond nationalism and activism into development journalism. This was the central conversation by Mojideen Alabi, Editor‑in‑Chief of DevReporting, as one of the trainers at the Journalism Clinic organised by the Media Career Development Network (MCDN) in partnership with the U.S. Consulate General, Lagos.
Alabi opened the session by emphasising that development journalism is “locally global,” explaining that even issues recognised globally often originate at the community level. He urged journalists to adopt people‑centred, issue‑driven, evidence‑based, solutions‑oriented and contextually grounded storytelling. Instead, he highlighted the need for collaboration, education and empowerment, stressing that development journalism thrives when journalists work together to track outcomes and measure real‑world impact.
The 6‑part programme, which began in 2025, has become an important forum for Nigerian journalists to network and be trained on industry best practice. The bi‑monthly meeting brings together early and mid‑career journalists for intensive training on tools, practices and ethics of development reporting.
Following Alabi, Mariam Ileyemi, Health and Development Reporter with Premium Times, spoke on the practical application of development journalism. She emphasised the importance of multimedia storytelling, encouraging journalists to invest in quality gadgets, ensure proper documentation and provide clear photo and video evidence, including environmental shots, to enhance credibility and audience engagement.
In her welcome remarks, Julie McKay, Public Affairs Officer of the U.S. Consulate, reaffirmed the Consulate’s commitment to supporting journalists and journalism as a vital pillar of democratic governance. She highlighted the various programmes, resources and American Spaces that Nigerian journalists can leverage for professional development. Temitayo Famutimi, a key member of the Consular team, also addressed participants, further outlining available support and opportunities for media practitioners. Olalekan Adediji, the photographer of the day, documented the event’s activities and engagement, capturing the learning moments of participants.
Participants described the session as impactful and insightful. Ibrahim Adam of The Punch highlighted that development journalism begins at the community level, focusing on human‑centred stories that influence lives in areas such as health, education and climate change. Mohammed Aminu Yahaya of MyFundAction described the training as invaluable, particularly for first‑time attendees.
Also speaking at the event, Joseph Jegede, Arise News Digital Journalist, who emerged as the class president, shared insights from his journalism experience. He advised journalists on the importance of knowing when to conceal their identity to obtain accurate and detailed information. Jegede also engaged participants after the session, highlighting the importance of mainstreaming development journalism across news platforms in Nigeria.
The session concluded with Lekan Otufodunrin, Executive Director of MCDN, urging participants to take the lessons from the clinic into their everyday reporting. He encouraged journalists to continue conversations on development journalism beyond the training room and apply the insights in ways that foster sustainable change within Nigerian communities.
Joseph Jegede
Follow us on:
