The Media Integrity Initiative Africa (MIIA) has opened registration for its first training cohort of 2026, continuing its mission to strengthen ethical, responsible and forward‑thinking media practice across the continent. The February 2026 edition of MIIA’s Free Quarterly Online Training Programme will take place on Saturday, 14 February and Saturday, 21 February 2026, running from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (WAT) on both days via Google Meet.
The initiative, which has flourished since its inception, recorded a significant impact in 2025, training hundreds of journalists, broadcasters, editors and communication professionals. The upcoming cohort builds on this momentum with a refreshed curriculum and a distinguished faculty of veteran practitioners.
A Two‑Day Programme Led by Industry Experts
The February training features four intensive modules designed to equip participants with practical skills, ethical grounding and contemporary insights essential for navigating today’s complex media environment.
Day 1 – Saturday, February 14 2026
The Legal Limits of Journalism (11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.)
Led by Richard Akinnola, a respected judiciary correspondent, newspaper editor and Executive Director of the Media Law Centre, this session will explore the legal frameworks that guide journalistic practice, helping participants understand their rights, responsibilities and potential liabilities.
Understanding Disinformation and Fact‑Checking Skills & Tools (2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
Lekan Otufodunrin, former Political Editor at The Punch and The Nation and Executive Director of the Media Career Development Network, will guide participants through the evolving landscape of disinformation. The module will introduce practical verification techniques and digital tools essential for modern newsrooms.
Day 2 – Saturday, February 21 2026
Media Power, Conflict‑Sensitive Reporting and Responsibility (11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.)
Veteran journalist Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre, will examine the influence of media narratives in conflict situations. The session will highlight responsible reporting practices that minimise harm and promote social cohesion.
Mastering the Dynamics of Celebrity Reporting (2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
Michael Effiong, a seasoned society and entertainment editor with decades of experience at Fame Weekly, Encomium Magazine and Ovation International, will offer insights into the fast-paced world of celebrity journalism. His session will unpack the ethics, challenges and storytelling techniques unique to this popular media genre.
A Training Programme with Proven Impact
MIIA’s quarterly trainings have earned praise from participants across Nigeria and beyond. Past attendees describe the sessions as transformative, accessible and professionally enriching.
“It was an insightful, (educational) and journalistic experience that resonated deeply with my passion for journalism,” said Qudus Oyewole Isiaka.
“A rewarding learning experience delivered with professionalism and dedication,” noted Ahmad Muhammad from Zamfara State.
“Though I’m not a journalist, the sessions were relatable and applicable across professions,” shared Tope Orororo.
“Highly impactful webinars – truly insightful,” added Sulaiman Adedayo AbdulMajeed.
Registration Now Open
Participation in the February 2026 cohort is entirely free, but registration is compulsory. Interested individuals can secure their place via the official registration link:
https://forms.gle/9AhAxFdjAZMkwSki7
About the Media Integrity Initiative Africa (MIIA)
MIIA is a professional development platform committed to nurturing a new generation of ethical, innovative and impact‑driven African media practitioners. Through its free quarterly online trainings, the organisation equips journalists, editors, broadcasters and communication specialists with the skills and values required to excel in an evolving media landscape.
For Enquiries or Collaboration
Femi Akintunde‑Johnson
Coordinator, Media Integrity Initiative Africa (MIIA)
e-mail: mediaintegrityiafrica@gmail.com
Telephone: +234 803 315 0547 (WhatsApp – text only)
Web: https://bsacademy2000.wixsite.com/miia