NLNGL trains journalists to blend with new era of digital storytelling

The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNGL) has trained over 40 journalists at this year’s “Change Your Story” workshop.

The workshop, with the theme: “Re-calibrate, Create, Connect,” drew participants from print, broadcast, and digital media. It was held between March 11 and 13 in Lagos.

The workshop focused on artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism, data visualisation, digital tools for real-time reporting and ways to combat misinformation.   

During the workshop, participants examined the changing landscape of journalism shaped by AI and digital communication. They also explored how new media technologies can support real-time reporting, extend audience reach across borders and strengthen engagement on digital platforms.

NLNGL’s General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development, Dr. Sophia Horsfall, urged the participants to apply the knowledge gained from the workshop to improve the quality and credibility of their reporting. Horsfall described the workshop as part of NLNG’s broader effort to strengthen engagements with the media and support professional excellence in journalism.

She advised the participants to use what they learnt to improve the depth and credibility of their work.

“NLNG views this engagement as a strategic partnership. We provide the energy that powers nations and generates revenue for our nation; you provide the information that powers our minds. We have been proud to host you, but our pride will only be justified when we see the ‘New Standard’ in your next feature, your next broadcast, and your next investigative report.

“As you head back to your various stations, I urge you to take the spirit of this workshop with you,” she said.

The intensive programme combined expert-led discussions with practical sessions.

Digital Communication specialist, Mr. Dan Mason, led sessions on digital storytelling, while media trainer, Taiwo Obe, facilitated a journalism clinic that focused on newsroom practice and storytelling skills.

Mason described the NLNG programme as a relevant ingredient to grow the foundation for new digital skills amongst the practitioners.

The trainer noted that the Nigerian media industry is a vibrant sector with lots of young people full of energy.

“For me, it’s a really good place to work. I feel strongly that at each training session, people listened. It’s really about people going away with a little bit more of confidence to say, ‘I’m going to do this. I can do this.’ And in a way, that’s all you need.

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“But what you have here is the essential ingredient in developing journalism, which is the ability to make mistakes and then learn from them,” he said.

Mason noted that Nigeria has an incredibly high rate of young people with an interest in news.

According to him, research around the world shows that Nigeria stands out at the top of having young people who are interested in news.

“They care. In your use of mobile platforms, you are way ahead. People have trust in journalism and journalists. And while there may be issues with people or younger generations not wanting to look at the news, you’ve got such a great and strong foundation to build upon.

“So, I see hope and opportunity in Nigeria, though I see the problems as well, because I’m a journalist. I see fantastic opportunities here,” he added.

The Change Your Story initiative, launched by NLNG in partnership with The Journalism Clinic, is designed to strengthen professional capacity in the media industry. Since its launch in 2014, the programme has trained about 400 journalists from print, broadcast, and digital media across Nigeria.