The former Presidential Spokesman and Dean, Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, Kwara State University, Prof. Isiaka Aliagan, has challenged investigative journalists to expose corruption and unravel cover-ups surrounding insecurity issues in the country.
Prof. Aliagan made this call on Saturday while speaking as Guest Speaker at the Investigative Journalism Masterclass organized by the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ).
The lecture, titled “Fundamentals of Investigative Journalism in Nigeria: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Innovation in the Digital Age,” drew participation from NGIJ members across the country as well as academics from the University of Abuja, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), and Niger State.
According to him, investigative journalists must step out of their comfort zones by digging into issues around insecurity, corruption, and other systemic problems facing Nigeria.
His words: “Developing sustainable solutions for investigative journalism training in Nigeria requires comprehensive approaches that address systemic challenges while building on existing strengths and opportunities. Strengthening existing institutions such as yours (NGIJ) and developing new specialised training centres can provide sustainable platforms for professional development.”
Prof. Aliagan further urged the NGIJ to build collaborative networks with civil society organisations and international partners to enhance their capacity in budget analysis and data-driven reporting. He also advised on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in investigative journalism, stressing that digital tools and AI technologies can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and expand reporting capabilities.
The veteran journalist equally called for diverse funding sources, including grants, fellowships, and innovative revenue models, to provide sustainable support for investigative journalism practice. He emphasized the need for legal reforms that protect press freedom and ensure access to information, while also advocating for strong professional standards to enhance credibility and public trust.
Earlier, the NGIJ President, Mallam Abdulrahman Aliagan, in his opening remarks, welcomed participants to the session, describing it as a reaffirmation of the Guild’s commitment to truth, accountability, and professionalism. He noted that investigative journalism plays a vital role in giving voice to the voiceless and holding leaders accountable in an era dominated by misinformation.
“As investigative journalists, scholars, and students, our role in society is clear: to dig deeper, uphold ethical standards, and give voice to the voiceless. In this age of misinformation and disinformation, sharpening our skills and embracing modern techniques is more urgent than ever,” the NGIJ President said.
He explained that the training was aimed at building the capacity of Guild members ahead of NGIJ’s forthcoming Governance Assessment Visits to some states in the country.
