Local Journalism Training Accountability & Collaboration

Local Journalism Training

The Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), under its Collaborative Media Engagement for Development, Inclusivity and Accountability (CMEDIA) project, invites journalists across Nigeria to apply for its upcoming local journalism training, which is focused on strengthening accountability reporting and fostering collaboration at the sub-national level.

Local journalism plays a critical role in advancing transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance. However, many journalists working at the state and community levels continue to face structural challenges, including limited resources, restricted access to data, and weak collaboration frameworks. These challenges often affect the depth, consistency, and impact of accountability reporting.

This training is designed to address these gaps by equipping journalists with practical approaches to strengthen accountability reporting while building collaborative networks that can drive sustained impact. Participants will gain insights into how to work across newsrooms, follow stories beyond initial publication, and deepen public interest reporting within their communities.

Central to this training is the R.U.S.H. (Report Until Something Happens) framework – a strategic follow-up structure developed by WSCIJ. R.U.S.H. moves beyond one-off reporting by teaching journalists how to consistently share updates and develop stories in various forms and formats until the relevant authorities act. By adopting this framework, journalists can ensure their investigations do not fade from the public eye but remain active until tangible accountability is achieved.

The training will be held on Thursday, 16 April 2026, bringing together journalists from different parts of the country who are committed to strengthening local and collaborative journalism.

As part of the application process, applicants are required to complete a short survey. This will not only support the selection process but also provide baseline insights into the current state of local journalism in Nigeria.

• Currently working in local or sub-national media (radio, TV, print, or digital)
• Have an interest in accountability and public-interest reporting
• Willing to collaborate with other journalists and newsrooms
• Available to participate in the training on the scheduled date

Interested applicants are encouraged to complete the application form on or before Thursday, 9 April 2026.