The West African Journalism Innovation Conference (WAJIC) is being organised by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID). The inaugural conference aims to bring together the largest group of journalists, media professionals, digital technologists, academics, innovators, policymakers, government institutions, and other relevant stakeholders from across West Africa to discuss the state of accountability journalism in the region and how innovation is influencing its evolution, values, and principles.
West Africa Journalism Innovation Conference 2023 theme is Accountability Journalism: Nurturing Innovation for a Sustainable Future. The conference with 300 expected delegates is set to take place on July 25th and 26th, 2023, from 9 am – 6 pm daily at the Abuja Continental Hotel in Abuja, Nigeria. It will be start with an Art Exhibition on the evening of 24th July.
WAJIC will bring together famous speakers and thought leaders from the fields of journalism and technology, such as Richard Gingras, Dr. Kole Shettima, Dapo Olorunyomi, Musikilu Mojeed, Tobi Oluwatola, Caroline Anipah, David Ajikobi, Shamima Muslim, Grant Masterson, Jake Epelle, Dr. Williette Kemi James, Rosemary Egabor-Afolahan, Obioma Okonkwo, Richard Gevers, Udo Jude Ilo, Frank Aigbogun, Ayo Adewuyi amongst other great speakers discussing challenges affecting journalism and media in West Africa.
Renowned journalists, media executives, and industry experts will share their perspectives on the ever-changing media landscape. And share deep insights on key topics such as the Future of Journalism Education, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Technology, and Journalism Interface, Press Freedom and Shrinking Spaces, Driving Accountability with Data Journalism, Information Disorder in the Digital Age, Media in West Africa Elections, Exploring Funding and Sustainability Models for Newsrooms, etc.
According to Deputy Director Busola Ajibola, the West African Journalism Innovation Conference will bring together journalists, and technology experts, including experts in the field of AI (Artificial Intelligence) and other forms of digital innovation, to discuss the intersection of journalism, innovation, artificial intelligence, and other forms of technology.
WAJIC will serve as a discussion forum for exploring innovation, technological models, and tools to strengthen journalism practice and its sustainability in West African democratic societies while adhering to the principles of accuracy, truthfulness, verification, and a strong commitment to public purpose.
The conference will include thought-provoking keynote addresses, lively panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities to help attendees make significant connections and share knowledge. The West Africa Journalism Innovation Conference will also provide a platform for journalists, media organizations, and technology businesses to network and develop relationships.
Delegates will have the opportunity to participate in meaningful discussions, share ideas, and explore prospective collaborations that have the potential to transform the West African media environment.
About the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development
The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), formerly the Premium Times Centre for Investigative Journalism, is a non-profit organization based in Nigeria that promotes media innovation, independent media, human rights, anti-corruption, and accountability in West Africa. CJID was founded in 2014 and operates in Ghana, the Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia, with its headquarters in Nigeria.
