
MTN Nigeria has extended the application deadline for the fifth edition of its Media Innovation Programme MIP to Saturday, April 25, 2026. This six-month, fully funded program is designed for media professionals and digital content creators across Nigeria. The extension, announced by MTN Nigeria’s Public Relations Manager, Lakinbofa Goodluck, aims to provide more opportunities for qualified individuals to apply for the competitive program. The 2026 cohort will admit 25 fellows, an increase from 20 in previous editions, coinciding with MTN Nigeria's 25th anniversary of operations in the country. Launched in 2022 in partnership with the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University, the MIP combines academic sessions with industry engagements and an international study visit to South Africa, including sessions at the University of Johannesburg. The program equips participants with knowledge, tools, and networks for leadership and innovation in the media and technology landscape. It is open to practitioners in print, electronic, digital, and social media, who must demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation, impactful storytelling, and continuous professional development. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a rigorous selection process, with successful applicants commencing the program in May 2026. Applications are available through the School of Media and Communication website. MTN Nigeria, part of the MTN Group, connects over 87.3 million subscribers.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadBishop Osorio Citora Afonso, 54, a Catholic bishop appointed by Pope Leo XIV to a central region of Mozambique, was shot dead at his home in Quelimane on Saturday. Maximino Amilcar, a spokesman for the criminal investigations bureau, stated that Afonso was shot in the chest, likely with a single bullet, and described the incident as "murder by gunshot." He added that details were not readily available. Mozambique's president, Daniel Chapo, expressed deep sadness over Afonso's death, calling it an "irreparable loss for Mozambican society." The Episcopal Conference of Mozambique noted that Afonso was found "lifeless and in mysterious circumstances that need to be made clear." Afonso, born in Mozambique, had previously served in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Italy, and as an auxiliary bishop in Maputo before his appointment as bishop in 2024 and subsequent transfer to the diocese of Quelimane in July 2025.
Must ReadThe Lagos Waste Management Authority has issued a precautionary advisory to health facilities and medical waste handlers in Lagos State following reports of an Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in parts of East Africa. Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, LAWMA's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, stated that the advisory aims to ensure vigilance and compliance with infection prevention and medical waste management protocols. He emphasized that there are currently no confirmed cases of Ebola in Lagos State or Nigeria, but preparedness is crucial for disease prevention. Health facilities and licensed medical waste operators are urged to strengthen infection prevention and control measures and adhere to approved medical waste management protocols. The advisory directs health facilities to reinforce infection prevention measures, including proper hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, safe handling of medical specimens, environmental decontamination, and strict segregation of infectious waste. Medical waste handlers and transporters are advised to follow approved procedures for collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of infectious waste, and to consistently use protective equipment. LAWMA will monitor compliance and engage stakeholders to maintain high standards of medical waste management. Health institutions are encouraged to review infection prevention protocols and report any suspected public health concerns. Lagos State remains on high alert, sustaining su

The Federal Road Safety Corps FRSC announced a 27 percent reduction in road traffic crashes and a 22 percent decrease in crash victims during the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration compared to 2025. Osondu Ohaeri, the Corp Public Education Officer, stated that this outcome is one of the corps' most remarkable operational achievements. The number of crashes fell from 191 in 2025 to 142 in 2026, and the number of people involved in crashes decreased from 1,364 to 1,064. Additionally, there was a 25.4 percent decrease in injuries, with injured persons reducing from 576 to 430. Ohaeri attributed these gains to effective traffic management strategies, public enlightenment campaigns, enforcement activities, and enhanced emergency response mechanisms, including strategic deployment of personnel and assets, round-the-clock patrols, and intelligence-driven surveillance. Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed commended the personnel, Special Marshals, and collaborating agencies, noting that the results demonstrate the effectiveness of sustained enforcement and strategic planning. Mohammed also thanked motorists for adhering to traffic regulations and urged continued safety practices beyond festive periods, emphasizing road safety as a shared responsibility.
Must ReadThe Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission OSOPADEC announced that N94 billion is needed to protect the coastal community of Aiyetoro in Ilaje Local Government Area from ongoing Atlantic Ocean incursions. Olabiyi Poroye, Chairman of OSOPADEC, made this statement during the 2026 World Environment Day celebration in Aiyetoro. He urged the international community, development partners, and donor agencies to support efforts to address the environmental crisis affecting coastal communities. Poroye explained that studies indicate the scale of destruction from climate change, coastal erosion, and rising sea levels exceeds the commission's financial capacity. He highlighted that land reclamation for one community alone is estimated at N94 billion. Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by Commissioner for Environment Tob Loko, noted that Aiyetoro was chosen for the celebration due to its severe ecological challenges and affirmed the government's commitment to finding solutions. Oba Oluwambe Ojagbohunmi, the traditional ruler of Aiyetoro, lamented that over 80 percent of the community's land, homes, and infrastructure have been lost to the sea in the past two decades, displacing families and destroying public facilities. He called for urgent shoreline protection and land reclamation to preserve the community's heritage.