ICIR Open Contract Report Awards: Justina Asisana uncovers institutional corruption in govt projects in Minna
Open contract reporting, an approach to investigative journalism, empowers citizens with important information and tools to hold government accountable in the face of poor governance.
Justina Asisana, a notable journalist in Minna, in this special interview with us at LightRay!, sheds light on her ICIR Award Winning OCRP investigations.
By ERU
What inspired you to embark on this investigative reporting project?
The project series was born out of a training session on analyzing budgets and procurement processes. My first project was an investigation into an uncompleted project in Minna, the Niger state capital. This led me to explore other issues, such as education, and examine the government’s actions and accountability.
Why does this story matter?
This story matters because it highlights the need for transparency and accountability in government contracting and procurement processes. Sometimes, due processes are not followed, and projects are not well utilized, ultimately becoming a problem for the people.
What impact did your reporting have?
The impact has been minimal. The multi-billion naira Minna city centre project remains abandoned, and while the government has taken steps to renovate some schools, many still require intervention. For such reports to have a significant impact, citizens need to be empowered to demand accountability from their leaders.
What does winning this award mean to you?
Winning this award means a lot. It’s an appreciation of my investigative reports and a call to do more.
Can you tell us about the ICIR Open Contract Report Awards and how you emerged as a winner?
The awards recognize exceptional investigative reporting. I was part of the Open Contract Reporting Project, which aimed to promote transparency and accountability in government contracting. The organizers, the International Centre for Investigative Reporting, recognized my work as exceptional, noting that my stories exposed irregularities in contract awards, procurement fraud, and mismanagement of public funds.
What advice would you give to aspiring investigative journalists?
First, ensure you have all the relevant documents. Conduct thorough fieldwork, leaving no stone unturned. Take advantage of mentoring opportunities, as mentors can point out areas you may have overlooked. When writing your report, present all sides of the story without bias, allowing the audience to judge. Finally, follow up on the impact of your story and report on any reactions or developments.
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