MIIA launches programme to restore integrity, responsibility in African journalism

In an era where misinformation and ethical lapses threaten the credibility of journalism, a bold initiative is stepping forward to reshape the landscape. The Media Integrity Initiative Africa (MIIA) has officially launched, bringing together an elite consortium of 20 veteran media professionals dedicated to restoring integrity, responsibility, and excellence in African journalism.

In a statement issued by Femi Akintunde-Johnson,Coordinator of MIIA, it is a “non-governmental organisation committed to teaching and training media practitioners – free of charge – on the ethics, demands, and practices of responsible, people-focused journalism.”

The statement continued, “through structured online training, expert mentorship, and practical leadership, the initiative seeks to nurture a new generation of ethical and proficient media professionals.”

At the heart of MIIA’s mission is the principle of ‘training the trainers and the trainable’ – ensuring that media professionals not only attain personal excellence but also become role models and influencers within the industry.

“The initiative offers a quarterly curriculum featuring online courses and electives tailored to different sectors of the media space, ranging from investigative journalism and ethical reporting to broadcast presentation, financial reporting, and entertainment media.

“To drive this vision, MIIA has assembled a formidable Board of Facilitators – an exclusive network of renowned editors, broadcasters, media executives, and journalism scholars,” the statement said.

These distinguished professionals, including Lanre Idowu, Richard Akinnola, Ohi Alegbe, Tony Onyima, Tokunbo Ojekunle, Adeboye Ola, Azu Ishiekwene, Seun Olagunju, Marcel Okeke, and Lekan Otufodunrin, will lead structured training modules designed to equip participants with the highest standards of media professionalism.

Other facilitators are Yakubu Lawal, Fisayo Soyombo, Michael Effiong, Deji Balogun, Yinka Shokunbi, Monday Ashibogwu, Olumide Iyanda, Johnson Onime, Lanre Arogundade, and Alex Ogundadegbe.

All training sessions will be conducted virtually, ensuring unrestricted access to aspiring and practicing media professionals across Africa. Participation is entirely free, with no financial, political, or ideological barriers – except that enrollees must be Africans involved in, or interested in, media-related careers.

“We are building a future where African media is defined by trust, accuracy, and a commitment to the public good,” said Femi Akintunde-Johnson, Coordinator of MIIA. “Our facilitators are not just teachers; they are industry icons with decades of experience, stepping forward to ensure that the next generation of journalists and media practitioners upholds the highest ethical and professional standards.”

As the MIIA opens enrolment for its first training sessions in April 2025, it invites media professionals, students, and enthusiasts to seize this rare opportunity to learn from some of the finest minds in African journalism. With the right training and mentorship, MIIA is set to redefine the African media landscape – one principled journalist at a time.