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One of Nigeria’s rising media talent, an Arise News journalist, Joseph Jegede, has been named among Africa’s next generation of media leaders by the International News Media Association (INMA).
Jegede earned the honour through INMA’s Africa Emerging Leaders Scholarship, a new initiative celebrating outstanding media professionals under 40 who are redefining journalism across the continent.
Selected from a competitive pool spanning 16 African countries, Jegede stood out for his innovative storytelling, digital expertise, and commitment to mentoring young journalists – qualities that position him as a leading voice in the evolution of Africa’s media space.
With over a decade of experience across broadcast, radio, and digital journalism, Jegede has built a reputation for excellence, versatility, and impact. His work reflects a deep understanding of how news consumption is changing and how journalists must adapt to meet audiences where they are.
Before joining Arise News, Jegede served as a senior journalist at the BBC, where he pitched, shot, and edited hundreds of radio, TV, and digital stories that reached global audiences. That experience, he says, helped him refine his storytelling craft while gaining international exposure and cross-cultural media insights.
INMA described this year’s cohort as a “driving force in Africa’s fast-evolving news industry,” noting that the programme aims to equip emerging talents with the training, mentorship, and global exposure needed to sustain journalism’s future.
The scholarship offers recipients a one-year INMA membership, access to global masterclasses, professional recognition, and networking opportunities across the association’s 20,000-member community.
Beyond newsroom excellence, Jegede has become a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and capacity building.
He has trained more than 2,500 young media professionals across Nigeria through digital-skills and media-literacy programmes supported by government agencies and private organisations.
His work bridges the gap between traditional journalism and the digital future combining credible reporting with modern storytelling tools to reach diverse audiences.
Jegede’s recognition underscores a broader shift within Africa’s media industry: the emergence of professionals who combine reporting skills, digital fluency, and leadership vision.
As Africa’s media landscape continues to evolve with social media, mobile platforms, and data-driven storytelling, journalists like Joseph Jegede are redefining how the continent tells its stories to itself and to the world.
