Nigeria Network of NGOs — Journalism Fellowship 2026 (Professional Call for Applications)

Nigeria Network of NGOs — Journalism Fellowship 2026 (Professional Call for Applications)

The Nigeria Network of NGOs (NNNGO) invites applications for the Journalism Fellowship 2026. This 12‑month, paid fellowship supports experienced journalists to produce rigorous, evidence‑based reporting on civic space, human rights and the role of civil society. The programme targets three geopolitical zones to capture diverse contexts and challenges: North East, South West and South East.

Programme objectives

– Strengthen investigative and evidence‑based reporting on civic space, human rights and civil society activity. 

– Support sustained local reporting that highlights locally led solutions, accountability and the impact of civil society organisations. 

– Build the capacity of journalists to counter foreign information manipulation and interference, and to report responsibly in fragile or restricted media environments.

Key benefits

– Intensive capacity building: Mandatory five‑day hybrid workshop (two days in‑person, three days virtual) led by international facilitators and experts. 

– Monthly stipend: ₦100,000 paid upon editorial sign‑off and publication of required deliverables. 

– Professional mentorship: Ongoing editorial support from an internal editorial team and access to global civil society experts for story development and fact‑checking. 

– Amplified reach: Fellowship stories will be republished across partner platforms, the NNNGO website and selected international newsrooms to maximise visibility.

Eligibility criteria

– Minimum five years of verifiable professional experience in print, broadcast or digital journalism. 

– Institutional commitment: A Letter of Commitment from an editor or media supervisor confirming support to publish or broadcast fellowship work. 

– Residence or professional practice in one of the focal geopolitical zones: North East, South West or South East. 

– Demonstrated interest and experience reporting on civic space, human rights or countering foreign information manipulation and interference. 

Fellowship expectations

– Attend and complete the mandatory five‑day training workshop. 

– Engage in a continuous 10‑month reporting cycle. 

– Submit bi‑weekly news updates and four proposed story plans per month for editorial approval. 

– Produce evidence‑based stories that foreground local solutions and the civil society sector’s impact. 

– Participate in a final virtual summit to present portfolios and share learning.

Application requirements

– Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV). 

– Three (3) work samples published within the last 12–24 months. 

– Letter of Commitment from your editor or media supervisor. 

– A brief statement of interest and initial story pitches related to the focal zones.

How to apply

– Submit your application electronically via the official portal: https://nnngo.org/apply-nnngo-journalism-fellowship/ 

– Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Additional information

– Deadline: 20 February 2026. 

– The NNNGO Journalism Fellowship is an equal opportunity programme. Applications from women and historically marginalised groups are strongly encouraged. 

– For enquiries, contact: fellowship@nnngo.org

Prepare a clear application that demonstrates your editorial independence, editorial support, and capacity to deliver high‑quality, evidence‑based journalism in challenging environments.