How the SCOJA Fellowship 2026 Is Empowering Journalists in Northern Nigeria

SCOJA Fellowship Empowers Northern Nigerian Journalists in Human Rights Reporting;A new fellowship is launching to support community journalists in Northern Nigeria. The Strengthening Community Journalism and Human Rights Advocacy (SCOJA) Fellowship aims to enhance hyperlocal reporting. Its goal is to promote accountability for human rights violations in rural areas.The program will equip journalists and advocates with advanced skills. Training will focus on investigative techniques and safety protocols. This initiative addresses critical gaps in local media coverage.

Fellowship Structure and Target States

The SCOJA Fellowship will run for six months. It includes an intensive three-day in-person training. These sessions will be held in three focal states: Kaduna, Plateau, and Borno.According to Reuters, the need for robust community journalism in the region is significant. The program targets journalists from nine states. These include Benue, Niger, Nasarawa, Plateau, Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Kaduna, and Kano. Participants will learn to report on sensitive issues like sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and climate change.

Comprehensive Curriculum and Long-Term Support

The training curriculum is extensive and practical. It covers digital safety, conflict-sensitive reporting, and countering misinformation. Fellows will also learn data-driven journalism and inclusive storytelling methods.A key component is the six-month post-training mentorship. During this period, fellows must produce at least three reports. They are also expected to launch one significant advocacy initiative. This support system ensures skills are applied effectively to create tangible community impact.

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The SCOJA Fellowship represents a major investment in local storytelling. It empowers community journalists with essential tools for accountability. This program could significantly strengthen human rights advocacy across Northern Nigeria.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is eligible to apply for the SCOJA Fellowship?

The fellowship is open to community journalists and advocates residing in the nine target states. Applicants must have a strong interest in community-led change. Women are highly encouraged to apply for the program.

What are the main benefits for selected fellows?

Fellows receive a six-month mentorship and a stipend. They also gain skills in advocacy, security training, and fact-checking. The program includes networking and peer-to-peer learning opportunities.

What is the application deadline for the 2026 program?

The application deadline is October 10, 2025. The fellowship itself will commence in 2026. The training will be held across three different focal states.

What are fellows expected to produce during the program?

Fellows must commit to producing at least three reports. They are also required to develop one significant advocacy initiative. Monthly activity reports are mandatory throughout the six-month period.

Why is this fellowship focused on Northern Nigeria?

The program aims to address specific accountability gaps in the region. It seeks to promote locally-led solutions for human rights issues. Strengthening community journalism is seen as vital for this goal.