The Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) has officially opened applications for its story support initiative under the Collaborative Media Engagement for Development, Inclusivity, and Accountability (CMEDIA) project. The call is specifically targeted at sub-national and local journalists who are committed to uncovering deep-seated community issues that have long been ignored by mainstream media.
The initiative seeks to empower journalists to go beyond routine reporting and delve into investigative story ideas that challenge the status quo and demand transparency from those in power.
Amplifying Unheard Voices
The CMEDIA project is designed to back journalists ready to interrogate governance and expose critical gaps in service delivery. By focusing on local realities, the WSCIJ aims to bring to the forefront stories that amplify the voices of the marginalized and ensure that community-level struggles receive the national attention they deserve.
“We are looking for investigative story ideas rooted in local realities, stories that interrogate governance, expose gaps in service delivery, and amplify voices that are often unheard,” the Centre stated in its call for applications.
The ‘RUSH’ Model for Impact
A key feature of this support is the implementation of the Report Until Something Happens (RUSH) model. Unlike traditional reporting, which often ends once a story is published, the RUSH model ensures that journalists receive the necessary backing to continue their reporting until a tangible impact or policy change is achieved. This sustained approach is intended to ensure that evidence-based reporting leads to actual accountability and reform.
The WSCIJ emphasized that the goal is to support work that can question power and use evidence to drive change, moving the needle on development and inclusivity at the grassroots level.
Application Details and Deadline
Journalists with compelling, evidence-based story ideas that focus on accountability are encouraged to apply through the official portal at http://bit.ly/CMEDIA-Story-Support.
The deadline for submission of applications is Thursday, 30 April 2026. This opportunity represents a critical lifeline for local reporters seeking the resources and platform to hold authorities accountable and improve the quality of life in their immediate communities.
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