US Envoy: Survival of Democracy Rests on Well-informed Citizenry

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The new US Consul General in Nigeria, Rick Swart, has said that the strength and survival of democratic governance is dependent on a well-informed citizenry, underscoring the importance of the journalism profession.

Speaking at the launch of the Adejumobi Adegbite Fellowship for Young Journalists in Lagos, the envoy stated that the initiative honours the legacy of the late US Consulate Information Specialist and ex-reporter at The Guardian newspaper, Adejumobi Adegbite, who tragically passed away in 2023.

“The landscape of journalism has evolved dramatically over the years, and the challenges you face today are more complex than ever before.  This is an era of rapid information exchange.

“The use of digital platforms offers both new opportunities and significant challenges. Among these challenges is the erosion of trust in the truth itself—a trust undermined by the spread of malign influence, manipulated information, and sensationalism over substance.

“Whether here in Nigeria or in the United States, the strength of any democracy depends on having a well-informed citizenry; and that is only possible when there is a free and independent press.

“Journalism is not just a profession; it is a public trust. Journalism holds the powerful accountable, ensures transparency, and provides the checks and balances necessary for a well-functioning democracy,” Swart opined.

According to him, without a new generation of journalists to carry this work forward, Nigeria risks undermining the very principles that sustain societies.

“That is why this fellowship matters. The US Mission in Nigeria is committed to supporting initiatives that connect emerging journalists with seasoned mentors to help equip them with the tools, skills, and networks needed to thrive in this profession,” he added.

Adejumobi, he said, started his media and communication career in 2006 as a general assignment reporter at The Guardian, one of Nigeria’s leading national newspapers. Prior to joining the Consulate, he noted that the deceased worked as a communications specialist at the British High Commission, Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS), Gates Foundation, and USAID projects.

“He joined the Consulate in 2021 as an Information Specialist and brought the same integrity and curiosity that defined his journalism career to the role.  Prior to his untimely passing, he was developing a programme to equip early-career journalists with the tools, ethics, and mentorship to pursue impactful journalism.

“To carry forward his dream and the values he held dear, the US Consulate General established the Adegbite Fellowship for Young Journalists in partnership with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ),” he noted.

While  appreciating the FIJ and its Editor-in-Chief, Fisayo Soyombo, one of its over 14,000 US government exchange alumni, for partnering with the Consulate General to make the Adejumobi Adegbite Fellowship for Young Journalists a reality, Swart highlighted Fisayo’s commitment to fostering a culture of investigative reporting and mentoring the next generation of impactful public interest journalists.

Besides, he thanked the fellows for making the journey from Yobe to Ibadan and many towns and cities in between and for making the time away from their busy newsrooms to commit to this year-long fellowship.

“Your presence here is a testament to your passion for improving your craft and your willingness to invest in your ongoing professional development.  This fellowship represents a significant investment in your journalism careers, providing you with the skills necessary to uphold journalism integrity and excellence.

“As some of you may already be aware, you were chosen from a highly competitive pool of over 80 talented journalists from across Nigeria, through a rigorous selection process. This achievement speaks volumes about your potential and the trust we have in you to carry forward the ideals of impactful public interest journalism. Congratulations on earning your place in this inaugural cohort,” he stated.

Since arriving in Lagos two weeks ago, he stated that reporting in Nigeria has helped him shape his understanding of Nigeria’s dynamic political, economic, social, and cultural landscape. 

“I have deep admiration for the essential work that all of you do. As someone who has worked closely with journalists around the world, I understand the immense responsibility you carry in your role as guardians of truth.

“This 12-month fellowship offers a unique and invaluable opportunity to hone your skills in public interest journalism.

“Throughout the programme, you will build expertise in critical areas such as data analysis, investigative reporting, journalism ethics, and multimedia storytelling.

“You will also gain practical knowledge on navigating the legal challenges that often confront journalists who dare to pursue stories the powerful would rather keep hidden. The Foundation for Investigative Journalism has put together a well-structured programme that includes four quarterly sessions and all-year-round mentorship to empower you to tell impactful stories, amplify underrepresented voices, and uphold the highest standards of journalism.

“As you progress on your professional journey, know that we stand with you.  We’re continually working on new programmes, training, and opportunities to support the important work you do,” the US envoy added.