Sustaining Accountability and Investigative Journalism in Nigeria: Experts Weigh In

The Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) recently convened a panel discussion on “Sustainable, Independent, and Relevant Media Ecosystems that thrive without external financial reliance.” The event brought together experts from various fields to explore the challenges facing the Nigerian media landscape and potential solutions.

Ify Onyekwere, a journalist at The Development Report, Peoples FM, moderated the discussion. She emphasized the importance of sustaining accountability and investigative journalism in Nigeria, highlighting the need to look beyond donor funding for the future of Nigerian media.

The panelists included Dayo Aiyetan, Executive Director of the International Center for Investigative Reporting (ICIR); Adaobi Obiabunmuo, Program Manager at the Progressive Impact Organization for Community Development; Mark Onoja, Co-founder of the Startup Place Limited; Usifo Omozokpea, Audience Development Manager at The Conversation Africa; and Dara Ajala, Program Manager at the Media Development Investment Fund.

Motunrayo Alaka, the Executive Director and CEO of the WSCIJ, gave the opening remarks. She emphasized the importance of sustainable investigative and accountability journalism to ensure democracy thrives. Alaka highlighted that top global organizations like The New York Times, Washington Post, and BBC Panorama share three key qualities: credibility, professionalism, and resources.

The panelists discussed various aspects of sustainability in the media business, including the importance of treating journalism as a business, diversifying revenue streams, and leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and profitability.

Dayo Aiyetan emphasized that profitable journalism is built on trust, currently affected by media corruption and misinformation. To regain trust, media organizations must emphasize ethics and credibility.

Adaobi Obiabunmuo stressed that the media must be seen as a business to sustain itself and hold the government accountable. Financial challenges and ownership by politically exposed persons can compromise media integrity.

Mark Onoja elaborated on how various industries, including media, are grappling with funding challenges as donors withdraw support. He emphasized that to access available funding, media organizations must demonstrate traction and deliver value to the marketplace.

Usifo Omozokpea shared his insights on the importance of sustainability in the media business and the role of Artificial Intelligence tools in enhancing one’s work. He highlighted that sustainability in investigative journalism hinges on impact and visibility, with leading organizations using multi-platform distribution and impact tracking.

Dara Ajala addressed the challenges facing the media business and potential solutions. According to her, media organizations face challenges like declining traditional platforms, changing consumer behavior, and misinformation. Consumers now rely on digital and mobile platforms for news, disrupting traditional journalism.

The discussion concluded with a question-and-answer session, where the panelists responded to questions from the audience. The event emphasized the need for sustainable, independent, and relevant media ecosystems that thrive without external financial reliance.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges facing its media landscape, it is clear that urgent action is needed. The government, civil society organizations, and individuals must work together to address this crisis and ensure that all Nigerians have access to credible, independent, and sustainable media.