Chinwe Michael, a dedicated journalist at BusinessDay, recently received the prestigious honor of being selected as one of only twenty participants for the fourth cohort of the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MIP). This groundbreaking initiative, a collaboration between MTN Nigeria and the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), aims to provide journalists with cutting-edge skills in media innovation, technology, and storytelling.
The program kicked off on May 19, 2025, and is set to conclude on October 24, 2025. Since its inception in 2022, the MTN MIP has been instrumental in propelling the careers of numerous Nigerian journalists to new heights within the media industry. The current cohort continues this legacy by empowering media professionals to navigate and excel in an ever-evolving media landscape.
Chinwe’s selection from a highly competitive pool of over 3,000 applicants for the coveted spot in the 2025 MTN-MIP cohort four underscores her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft. Known for her advocacy for financial inclusion and expertise as an economy journalist, she brings a unique perspective to storytelling that resonates with audiences.
With a background in banking and finance complemented by a Higher National Diploma (HND) from the Federal Polytechnic in Nekede, Owerri, Chinwe combines analytical prowess with meticulous attention to detail in all her work. Before joining BusinessDay, she honed her skills as a tax consultant at Adewale Ogundele & Co during her National Youth Service program. Her professional journey also includes attaining a significant milestone as she advances through levels at the Institute of Chartered Accountants.
Tobe Okigbo, chief corporate services and sustainability officer at MTN Nigeria expressed enthusiasm about how the MIP fosters innovation among journalists. He stated that
“the MIP was created to spark innovation in the media space by equipping journalists with tools and exposure needed to thrive.”
Among other distinguished fellows selected alongside Chinwe are prominent names like Adaku Onyenucheya of The Guardian; Adebayo Adeyemi Michael from Africa Independent Television (AIT); Desmond Okon representing The Cable; Precious Igbonwelundu from The Nation; Royal Ibeh contributing to Leadership Newspapers; Amarachi Ubani from Channels Television; Blessings Mosugu affiliated with News Central TV; Georgina Ndukwe-Ezeanyika featured on Arise News; Precious David-Ogaga representing Nigeria Television Authority (NTA); Vanessa Richard-Bassey covering Sparkling 92.3 FM; Zainab Adam showcasing talent on SMK Radio 96.5 FM; Asukwo Oduo writing for Pulse Nigeria; David Afolayan contributing content on TechNext; Edun Rebecca associated with Megalometrics among others.
This distinctive group represents diverse talents poised to revolutionize storytelling within Nigeria’s dynamic media ecosystem. Through platforms like MTN MIP Cohort 4 where innovative journalism thrives under expert guidance – individuals like Chinwe Michael are shaping narratives that resonate powerfully across various sectors.
