How we Trained 3,790 Journalists, Created 844 Stories in Few Years – WSCIJ
The Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) has reiterated its commitment to empowering local journalists and strengthening accountability reporting through collaboration, innovation, and sustained partnerships.
This renewed commitment was highlighted during a special day of learning in Lagos which focused on deepening the impact of the Collaborative Media Engagement for Development, Inclusivity and Accountability (CMEDIA) project.
The Executive Director and CEO of WSCIJ, Motunrayo Alaka, described collaboration as “the media’s new power tool,” stressing that impactful journalism thrives when journalists and organisations work together to amplify local voices.
She noted that many powerful stories shaping democracy begin in small communities and local councils but require collaboration to get national attention.
Highlighting the achievements of the CMEDIA project, which is funded by the MacArthur Foundation, Alaka revealed that the initiative has trained over 3,790 journalists and editors on accountability and local reporting, produced 844 stories on governance and service delivery, and supported 17 media organisations across Nigeria.
This year’s event was themed CMEDIA: Lessons on Local Journalism and Collaboration, Driving Accountability with Local Voices, Grassroots Reporting and Collective Action
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She added that WSCIJ helped establish three investigative desks, two fact-checking units, and strengthened over 30 start-ups with capacity development for business growth.
Media partners under the CMEDIA project shared their experiences, recounting the successes and challenges they faced in implementing the initiative. While many highlighted the impact of collaboration in amplifying grassroots issues and promoting accountability, they also cited funding limitations, insecurity, and sustaining cooperation beyond project cycles as key obstacles.
In her presentation on the next steps titled “Funding Local Journalism for Continued Collaboration,” Alaka announced that WSCIJ will transition CMEDIA into a self-sustaining network that will serve as a hub for joint reporting, shared learning, and increased visibility for local journalists. She explained that the Centre will act as the secretariat and convening body, while partners will continue working collectively to produce stories that strengthen governance and democracy.
To ensure continuity, WSCIJ outlined pathways to sustainability, including a dedicated fund for local and collaborative journalism, partnerships and co-funding opportunities, ongoing training and mentorship, and an annual CMEDIA forum to showcase results. The Centre also pledged to sustain the initiative through the RUSH model, focusing on resource sharing, unity of purpose, sustainability, and human impact.
Alaka urged journalists to remain committed to truth and accountability, saying, “CMEDIA doesn’t end here; it evolves. We must stay connected, keep telling the truth, and use our platforms to sustain accountability reporting.” She called on media organisations to continue amplifying local voices, driving national change, and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through collaboration and shared purpose.
