
By Suleiman Abdulmumin
Connected Development (CODE), a leading civil society organization, has launched a groundbreaking initiative to support Nigerian journalists. The organization has committed $5 million over the next five years to empower media professionals with the skills, tools, and resources needed to excel in their roles.
The initiative is part of CODE’s six-year strategic plan (2024-2030) aimed at embedding the media in the development value chain. The organization recognizes the crucial role journalists play in holding governments accountable and informing citizens.
CODE’s CEO, Hamzat Lawal, emphasized the importance of journalists in their success over the years. “Nigerian journalists should be proud and take ownership of the success that we have achieved over the years. It is through them that we have been able to achieve what we have been achieving.”
The $5 million basket fund will be disbursed in annual installments of $1 million until 2030. This initiative comes on the heels of CODE’s recent exploration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the media landscape.
By supporting Nigerian journalists, CODE aims to enhance the quality of reporting and promote development in Africa. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the media industry and the communities they serve.