ABUJA: No fewer than 20 20 veteran media professionals have formally launched Media Integrity Initiative Africa (MIIA), an initiative dedicated to upholding ethical reporting and excellence in African journalism as well as combating misinformation and restoring credibility in the industry.
In a statement issued to journalists on Wednesday in Abuja by the coordinator, Femi Johnson, MIIA harped on the initiative’s commitment to strengthening journalistic integrity across Africa.
MIIA, a non-governmental organisation, seeks to provide free training for media practitioners, equipping them with the tools to practice responsible and people-focused journalism. The initiative’s online courses, expert mentorship, and leadership programmes are designed to nurture a new generation of ethical journalists, according to Leadership News.
At the core of MIIA’s mission is “training the trainers and the trainable,” ensuring that media professionals excel individually and become role models and industry influencers.
The initiative will offer a quarterly curriculum covering various aspects of journalism, including investigative reporting, ethical journalism, broadcast presentation, financial reporting, and entertainment media.
MIIA has assembled a Board of Facilitators comprising some of the most respected names in African media. The faculty includes:
“Lanre Idòwú, Richard Akinnola, Ohi Alegbe, Tony Onyima, Tokunbo Ojekunle, Adeboye Ola, Azu Ishiekwene, Seun Olagunju, Marcel Okeke, Lekan Otufodunrin, Yakubu Lawal, Fisayo Soyombo, Michael Effiong, Deji Balogun, Yinka Shokunbi, Monday Ashibogwu, Olumide Iyanda, Johnson Onime, Lanre Arogundade, Alex Ogundadegbe.”
Johnson emphasised that these industry experts will provide structured training modules, imparting the highest standards of media professionalism.
He stated that all MIIA training sessions would be conducted virtually, making them accessible to aspiring and practising media professionals across Africa. Participation is free, with no financial, political, or ideological restrictions—only that enrollees must be Africans interested in media careers.
“We are building a future where African media is defined by trust, accuracy, and a commitment to the public good,” he said. “Our facilitators are not just teachers; they are industry icons with decades of experience, stepping forward to ensure that the next generation of journalists upholds the highest ethical standards.”
With enrollment opening for its first training session in April 2025, MIIA invites media professionals, students, and enthusiasts to take advantage of this opportunity and learn from some of the finest minds in African journalism.
