By Damilola Ogunsakin 

Nearly 100 CEOs from leading Nigerian media organizations gathered in Abuja and Lagos between May 4 and 10 for a weeklong workshop aimed at strengthening journalism innovation and media sustainability. Organized by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria in partnership with Channels Academy, the program focused on refining media business models, developing new revenue strategies, and enhancing audience engagement.

Speaking at the opening ceremony in Abuja, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills, Jr., emphasized the critical role of a free and independent press in any democracy. “A free and independent press is the backbone of any strong democracy,” said Ambassador Mills. “I’m grateful to be here with you as we work together to shape a more resilient future for media in this country.”

The speaker program was led by Stacia Philips, a former U.S. media executive with over three decades of experience in editorial strategy, business development, and audience engagement. Through panel discussions, interactive sessions, and breakout groups, Philips shared practical strategies for adapting media business models to today’s rapidly changing market dynamics.

“There’s no one-size-fits-all solution,” Philips noted. “But independent media can thrive by fostering innovation, leveraging technology, optimizing operations, and diversifying revenue streams.”

Participants explored opportunities for collaboration beyond the workshop, including ideas such as pooled coverage and joint content distribution to expand their reach while maintaining editorial integrity. Philips described the experience as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” and expressed optimism about the momentum generated among the media leaders.

General Manager of Channels Academy, Kingsley Uranta, highlighted the significance of the program. “In these challenging times, the future of media depends on our ability to innovate and co-create,” Uranta said. “Channels Academy remains committed to empowering media leaders and practitioners to shape a resilient and dynamic industry.”

The initiative is part of the U.S. Mission’s ongoing efforts to support press freedom and professional development through various programs, including the International Visitor Leadership Program and Foreign Press Center Reporting Tours. The Mission reiterated its commitment to seeing Nigeria’s media sector continue to grow and thrive.