MTN Nigeria Launches Media Innovation Programme at Pan-Atlantic University
MTN Nigeria has launched the third edition of its Media Innovation Programme (MIP) at the School of Media and Communication (SMC) of Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), aiming to enhance the skills and knowledge of Nigerian media practitioners.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
MTN Nigeria has been steadfast in its commitment to fostering innovation and media excellence through the Media Innovation Programme (MIP), now in its third year. Launched at the School of Media and Communication (SMC) of Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), the program is designed to equip Nigerian media practitioners with advanced skills and knowledge to navigate and excel in the rapidly evolving media landscape.
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Under the banner of MTN’s slogan, “What are We Doing Today?”, the telecommunications giant has expanded its efforts across various sectors, including healthcare, education, environment, energy, social welfare, culture, and entertainment. The MIP exemplifies MTN’s dedication to media excellence and innovation, offering a fully funded, six-week residential fellowship spread over six months.
The MIP is open to media practitioners from print, electronic, online platforms, and social media content creators. The fellowship includes a study trip to the University of Johannesburg in South Africa, visits to the South African Broadcasting Station, innovation hubs, and tours of MTN’s headquarters in both Sandton and Nigeria. This comprehensive program aims to deepen participants' understanding of the media landscape and enhance their ability to create impactful media content using advanced technologies.
The application process for the third edition of MIP began on March 23, 2024, and concluded on April 10, 2024. From over 2,000 entries, 20 outstanding candidates were selected based on their exceptional essays. The 2024 cohort includes notable media professionals such as Chiemelie Ezeobi of ThisDay Newspapers, Anthony Obakeye of CNBC Africa, and Nkechi Ogbonna of BBC West Africa, among others.
The third edition kicked off on May 20, 2024, with opening remarks from Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, Dean of SMC, followed by insights from Tobe Okigbo, MTN Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer. The inaugural week featured lectures on various topics, including "Culture, Society, and the Media" by Dr. Richard Ikiebe, "The Concept of Innovation and its Imperatives for Media Practitioners" by Mr. Frank Aigbogun, and "Introduction to Entrepreneurship" by Dr. Peter Bamkole.
MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Tobe Okigbo, emphasized the critical role of the media in shaping society and MTN’s commitment to empowering media professionals. He stated, “MIP is a testament to our dedication to supporting a free and independent press. We believe in equipping media practitioners with the necessary skills to excel and tell impactful stories.”
MTN Nigeria, a leading provider of communications services in Africa, connects approximately 77 million people across the country. As part of the MTN Group, operating in 19 countries, MTN Nigeria continues to lead in coverage, capacity, and innovation. The company is committed to bridging the digital divide and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through its core business activities and community support.
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The SMC at Pan-Atlantic University aims to train professionals who uphold high intellectual, ethical, and professional values. The school offers a range of programs, including a B.Sc. in Mass Communication, Information Science and Media Studies, Film and Multimedia Studies, as well as M.Sc. and PhD programs in Media and Communication.
