Nigeria: CJID Opens Entries for 2026 Alfred Opubor Next-Gen Awards for Campus Journalism

What the report says

The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) has opened applications for the 2026 Alfred Opubor Next-Gen Awards for Campus Journalism, according to an AllAfrica-distributed report published on 1 September 2026. The call is aimed at undergraduate student journalists in Nigerian tertiary institutions, with eligible stories published between 1 October 2025 and 30 September 2026. CJID said entries may come from the Campus Reporter platform or other recognised media outlets, and the awards are meant to spotlight work that amplifies student voices, examines campus and community issues, and holds authorities accountable.

This year’s edition broadens the competition to six categories: investigative journalism, community reporting, data journalism, campus affairs, health reporting and reporting on inclusion. CJID said runners-up will also be recognised, and one winner will be named Campus Journalist of the Year. The organisation said the top prize will include a plaque, cash award, recognition at its journalism excellence ceremony and an international internship opportunity, while other winners and runners-up will receive plaques, cash prizes and certificates.

Busola Ajibola, CJID’s deputy director of journalism programme, said the expanded categories reflect the range and quality of campus reporting in Nigeria. The awards are part of CJID’s Next Gen Campus Reporter Project, which has operated since 2017 and provides training, mentorship and publishing opportunities for student journalists. The deadline for submissions is 1 October 2026, and shortlisted applicants are expected to be contacted before the awards ceremony scheduled for November 2026.