Premium Times editor Musikilu Mojeed has been selected for this year's cohort of the MTN Media Innovation Programme, joining 24 other journalists across Nigeria's media landscape.
The media innovation initiative increased its intake this year from 20 to 25 fellows, expanding the scope of the annual scheme that aims to equip journalists with skills for the digital age. The programme, run by MTN in partnership with media organisations, focuses on training reporters and editors in emerging technologies and modern storytelling techniques.
Mojeed's selection recognises the role Premium Times has played in investigative journalism and digital reporting over the past decade. The newspaper has built a reputation for breaking stories on governance, corruption, and public accountability through its online platform.
The 25-member cohort represents newsrooms across print, broadcast, and online outlets. The expansion from 20 to 25 fellows signals MTN's commitment to developing journalism capacity at a time when the industry faces pressure from declining advertising revenue and changing reader habits.
Fellows in the programme receive training in data journalism, multimedia reporting, audience engagement, and business models for sustainable news operations. Previous cohorts have produced journalists who went on to lead digital transformation efforts at their respective organisations.
The selection of journalists from established outlets like Premium Times suggests the programme targets experienced reporters rather than entry-level staff. This approach allows fellows to implement what they learn directly in their newsrooms upon completing the training.
Details of when the 2024 cohort begins its training have not yet been announced, though MTN typically runs the programme across several months with both classroom and practical components.
