MTN Media Innovation Programme Advocates for Nigeria-South Africa Ties

Nigerian journalists participating in the 2026 MTN Media Innovation Programme (MIP) in South Africa have called for deeper media-driven connections between Nigeria and South Africa. They urged journalists to focus on positive narratives that highlight shared aspirations, rather than crises and tensions.

During a session titled “Storytelling Across Borders: Finding the Untold Nigeria–South Africa Stories,” moderated by MIP Fellow Tolulope Ajibola, participants discussed the importance of showcasing the contributions of entrepreneurs, students, artists, and professionals who foster connections between the two nations. The summit, held at the University of Johannesburg, included 25 Nigerian journalists and South African media practitioners.

Professor Sifiso Mnisi emphasized the role of media narratives in shaping perceptions and the responsibility of journalists to avoid distorting impressions of other societies. The discussions also addressed the human consequences of crisis reporting, highlighting the need for more intentional reporting that reflects the everyday connections between Nigeria and South Africa.