US Mission launches Fellowship for Young Journalists, cites example of FIJ’s Fisayo Soyombo, US government exchange alumnus
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
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“I would like to offer our appreciation to the Foundation for Investigative Journalism and its Editor-in-Chief, Fisayo Soyombo, one of our over 14,000 U.S. government exchange alumni, for partnering with the U.S. Consulate General to make the Adejumobi Adegbite Fellowship for Young Journalists a reality.
“Fisayo, your commitment to fostering a culture of investigative reporting and mentoring the next generation of impactful public interest journalists is inspiring and is in alignment with our shared belief in the importance of a free and vibrant press in a healthy democracy ….
“The use of digital platforms offers both new opportunities and significant challenges. Among these challenges is the erosion of trust in the truth itself – a trust undermined by the spread of malign influence, manipulated information, and sensationalism over substance.
“Whether here in Nigeria or in the United States, the strength of any democracy depends on having a well-informed citizenry; and that is only possible when there is a free and independent press.
“Journalism is not just a profession; it is a public trust. Journalism holds the powerful accountable, ensures transparency, and provides the checks and balances necessary for a well-functioning democracy.
“Without a new generation of journalists to carry this work forward, we risk undermining the very principles that sustain our societies. That is why this fellowship matters” – Rick Swart, US Consul General.
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A fellowship for equipping journalists to navigate the complexities of digital communication for truthful reporting and help build up society has been launched in Lagos by the United States embassy in Nigeria.
The Adejumobi Adegbite Fellowship for Young Journalist was launched on Wednesday, named in memorty of the former reporter at The Guardian who later worked as Information Specialist at the US Mission before he died two years ago.
US Consul General Rick Swart cited the example being set by Fisayo Soyombo, founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), one of more than 14,000 US government exchange alumni, to support his belief that a new generation of journalists needs the full skills to provide the checks and balances necessary for a well-functioning democracy.
Swart told the inaugural cohort that the fellowship represents a significant investment in their journalism careers, providing them with the skills necessary to uphold journalism integrity and excellence in this era of pervasive misinformation, disinformation, and outright falsehood.
“The landscape of journalism has evolved dramatically over the years, and the challenges you face today are more complex than ever before. This is an era of rapid information exchange,” he stressed.
“The use of digital platforms offers both new opportunities and significant challenges. Among these challenges is the erosion of trust in the truth itself – a trust undermined by the spread of malign influence, manipulated information, and sensationalism over substance.”
Swart’s full speech at the launch is produced below, as sent to TheNiche by the US embassy:
Good morning, everyone. My name is Rick Swart and I am the U.S. Consul General here in Lagos. I am delighted to join you for the launch of the Adejumobi Adegbite Fellowship for Young Journalists.
This initiative honors the legacy of the late U.S. Consulate Information Specialist and ex-reporter at The Guardian newspaper, Adejumobi Adegbite, who tragically passed away in 2023.
Adejumobi started his media and communication career in 2006 as a general assignment reporter at The Guardian, one of Nigeria’s leading national newspapers.
Prior to joining the Consulate, he worked as a communications specialist at the British High Commission, Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS), Gates Foundation, and USAID projects.
He joined the Consulate in 2021 as an Information Specialist and brought the same integrity and curiosity that defined his journalism career to the role. Prior to his untimely passing, he was developing a program to equip early-career journalists with the tools, ethics, and mentorship to pursue impactful journalism.
To carry forward his dream and the values he held dear, the U.S. Consulate General established the Adegbite Fellowship for Young Journalists in partnership with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism.
We would like to honor him now with a moment of reflection. Thank you.
Next, I would like to offer our appreciation to the Foundation for Investigative Journalism and its Editor-in-Chief, Fisayo Soyombo, one of our over 14,000 U.S. government exchange alumni, for partnering with the U.S. Consulate General to make the Adejumobi Adegbite Fellowship for Young Journalists a reality.
Fisayo, your commitment to fostering a culture of investigative reporting and mentoring the next generation of impactful public interest journalists is inspiring and is in alignment with our shared belief in the importance of a free and vibrant press in a healthy democracy.
To the fellows, thank you for making the journey from Yobe to Ibadan and many towns and cities in between and for making the time away from your busy newsrooms to commit to this year-long fellowship.
Your presence here is a testament to your passion for improving your craft and your willingness to invest in your ongoing professional development.
This fellowship represents a significant investment in your journalism careers, providing you with the skills necessary to uphold journalism integrity and excellence.
As some of you may already be aware, you were chosen from a highly competitive pool of over 80 talented journalists from across Nigeria, through a rigorous selection process. This achievement speaks volumes about your potential and the trust we have in you to carry forward the ideals of impactful public interest journalism.
Congratulations on earning your place in this inaugural cohort.
On a personal note, I arrived in Lagos two weeks ago and as I prepared for move to Nigeria, I read and listened to news reports and analysis written by some of you as well as colleagues in your various newsrooms.
So personally, I want to say thank you – your reporting has helped shape my understanding of Nigeria’s dynamic political, economic, social, and cultural landscape. It is a pleasure to meet you all and I hope I will see you many more times during my years here.
I have deep admiration for the essential work that all of you do. As someone who has worked closely with journalists around the world, I understand the immense responsibility you carry in your role as guardians of truth.
The landscape of journalism has evolved dramatically over the years, and the challenges you face today are more complex than ever before. This is an era of rapid information exchange.
The use of digital platforms offers both new opportunities and significant challenges. Among these challenges is the erosion of trust in the truth itself – a trust undermined by the spread of malign influence, manipulated information, and sensationalism over substance.
Whether here in Nigeria or in the United States, the strength of any democracy depends on having a well-informed citizenry; and that is only possible when there is a free and independent press.
Journalism is not just a profession; it is a public trust. Journalism holds the powerful accountable, ensures transparency, and provides the checks and balances necessary for a well-functioning democracy.
Without a new generation of journalists to carry this work forward, we risk undermining the very principles that sustain our societies. That is why this fellowship matters.
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria is committed to supporting initiatives that connect emerging journalists with seasoned mentors to help equip them with the tools, skills, and networks needed to thrive in this profession.
This 12-month fellowship offers a unique and invaluable opportunity to hone your skills in public interest journalism.
Throughout the program, you will build expertise in critical areas such as data analysis, investigative reporting, journalism ethics, and multimedia storytelling.
You will also gain practical knowledge on navigating the legal challenges that often confront journalists who dare to pursue stories the powerful would rather keep hidden.
The Foundation for Investigative Journalism has put together a well-structured program that includes four quarterly sessions and all-year-round mentorship to empower you to tell impactful stories, amplify underrepresented voices, and uphold the highest standards of journalism.
As you progress on your professional journey, know that we stand with you. We’re continually working on new programs, trainings, and opportunities to support the important work you do.
Please feel free to reach out to our Public Affairs Officer, Julie McKay, and her team at the Public Diplomacy Section to learn more about additional training opportunities.
Congratulations to each of you. Thank you again for your participation in this year-long program, and for your commitment to your profession.
I wish you an informative and productive fellowship and look forward to reading and watching the implementation of the knowledge and skill you will learn over the next year.
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