Daily Trust Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Media Trust Limited, publishers of Daily Trust titles, has launched a capacity-building initiative for 21 journalists from Northwest Nigeria.

The training is aimed at equipping them with entrepreneurial and digital skills to foster sustainable media ventures.

Speaking at the opening of the Media Enterprise Lab in Kaduna, Chairman of the Foundation, Malam Bilya Bala, said the programme was designed to assist journalists, especially those running startup outfits, to transition from traditional newsroom roles into successful media entrepreneurs.

SPONSOR AD

“This programme is not just about refining existing skills but about helping journalists shift from routine reporting to establishing and managing viable media platforms.

“With support from the MacArthur Foundation, we are training them to succeed as independent media owners and freelancers,” he said.

He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the foundation’s broader vision of strengthening journalism through innovation and sustainability.

Programme Director of the foundation, Theophilus Abba, said the training is focused on helping participants learn from the practical experiences of successful media entrepreneurs.

“This project is our contribution to media development. We brought in facilitators who have built their media businesses from the ground up. The goal is to ensure that these startups learn from those success stories and chart a similar path,” he added.

He noted that the digital revolution has dramatically reshaped the media landscape, adding that journalists must adapt to the new terrain in order to remain relevant.

“We believe these 21 participants will return to their communities and build sustainable media platforms. The opportunity for success is still wide open for anyone who is prepared,” he said.

The training featured experienced facilitators such as Maharazu Ahmed, publisher of Syndicate Online, who guided participants through the contemporary media terrain in Nigeria.

Chief Isiaq Ajibola, former Managing Director of Media Trust Group, led sessions on business model development, expansion strategies, and funding opportunities.

While Hassan Abdul, Lead Consultant at Media Range Limited, delivered lectures on building brand identity, advertising techniques, and attracting sponsorships.

The Media Enterprise Lab is fully funded by the MacArthur Foundation, which has supported journalism training in Nigeria for over 15 years.

The programme is expected to inspire the emergence of innovative, resilient media organizations across the Northwest region, driven by a new generation of digitally savvy journalists.



Source link