The United States Consulate General in Lagos is extending its support for the Media Career Development Network for a second year to strengthen the capacity of emerging Nigerian journalists through a year-long Journalism Clinic beginning in November 2026.
The programme will feature 12 monthly training sessions across seven cities, including Lagos, Ibadan, Benin City, Port Harcourt, Calabar, Awka and Enugu.
The U.S. Consulate and MCDN announced the programme in a press release dated November 9, 2026, explaining that it would bring together early-career journalists from print, online, radio and television organisations.
The press release was signed by Christiana Gabriel, Programme Associate, and was shared with Online on Monday.
According to the statement, the programme will combine expert-led instruction, practical skills development and opportunities for participants to connect with experienced journalists and subject matter experts.
Explaining the objectives of the initiative, the organisers said it would equip journalists with the knowledge and skills to report more effectively on issues shaping the U.S.–Nigeria relationship.
The statement said, “The initiative will equip journalists with the knowledge and skills to report more effectively on issues shaping the U.S.–Nigeria relationship, particularly trade, investment, technology, creative economy, and other areas of bilateral cooperation.”
It added that the Journalism Clinic would also strengthen participants’ understanding of freedom of expression and its relationship with democratic governance and economic development.
“The journalism clinic will strengthen participants’ understanding of freedom of expression as a cornerstone of democratic governance, prosperity, innovation, and long-term economic development,” the statement read.
Executive Director of MCDN, Lekan Otufodunrin, commended the US government for extending its support for the initiative and its commitment to independent journalism in Nigeria.
He said, “We appreciate the opportunity to provide the training and networking opportunity for journalists in Nigeria to enhance their skills by learning from accomplished journalists and experts who will lead the various sessions.”
The organisers invited interested journalists to apply by completing an online form and providing details of their reporting interests.
“Interested journalists can apply filling this form https://forms.gle/uVQ8DkuquQVBsjQh8 with details of their reporting interests. Selected participants will be notified ahead of each monthly session,” the statement said.
The Media Career Development Network is a journalism training and mentoring organisation committed to helping media professionals build stronger, more sustainable and fulfilling careers.