CJID OSINT Research Fellowship 2026: How Northern Nigeria Journalists can Apply to Receive Monthly Stipends, Training & Mentorship

CJID OSINT Research Fellowship 2026 for Northern Nigeria

The CJID OSINT Research Fellowship 2026 is now officially open for applications, offering a major opportunity for journalists and researchers across Northern Nigeria to strengthen their investigative skills in Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) and conflict reporting.

The program, organized by the (CJID), provides monthly stipends, specialized training, mentorship, and access to investigative tools for selected fellows.

With applications currently ongoing, eligible media professionals and researchers are encouraged to apply early for this competitive fellowship.

What Is the CJID OSINT Research Fellowship 2026?

The CJID OSINT Research Fellowship is designed to build capacity among journalists and researchers working in regions affected by conflict, misinformation, disinformation, and governance challenges.

The fellowship focuses on:

Open Source Intelligence (OSINT)
Digital investigations
Fact-checking and verification
Countering violent and harmful narratives
Conflict and security reporting

The initiative aims to equip fellows with practical skills to conduct data-driven investigations using publicly available digital resources.

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Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria Explained

The fellowship is specifically targeted at professionals based in Northern Nigeria. Eligible applicants must be:

Journalists and researchers residing in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, or Niger States
Media professionals covering conflict, security, governance, human rights, misinformation, or disinformation
Individuals with a strong interest in fact-checking and OSINT
Affiliated with media organizations or independent platforms

Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate relevant professional or community-based experience in journalism, research, or related disciplines.

Fellowship Benefits: What Selected Candidates Will Receive

Successful applicants to the CJID OSINT Research Fellowship 2026 will benefit from:

1. Monthly Stipends

Fellows will receive financial support throughout the program duration, enabling them to focus fully on research and investigative reporting.

2. Professional Training

Participants will undergo structured training in digital investigation techniques, OSINT methodologies, and countering misinformation strategies.

3. Mentorship

Experienced professionals will provide mentorship and guidance, strengthening fellows’ investigative and analytical skills.

4. Access to Tools and Resources

Fellows will gain access to advanced digital tools essential for open-source intelligence and research.

5. Regional Network Access

Participants will join a network of regional fellows, fostering collaboration and peer learning across Northern Nigeria.

Why the CJID OSINT Fellowship Matters in Northern Nigeria

Northern Nigeria has faced ongoing challenges related to conflict, misinformation, and governance. Strengthening investigative journalism in the region is critical to:

Promoting transparency and accountability
Countering harmful narratives
Enhancing evidence-based reporting
Supporting peacebuilding efforts

By investing in journalists and researchers, CJID aims to reinforce credible storytelling and responsible reporting practises in conflict-sensitive areas.

Application Deadline and How to Apply

The application deadline is currently listed as ongoing, meaning interested candidates should apply as soon as possible before slots are filled.

Applicants must visit the official CJID webpage and follow the instructions provided for submission. Detailed eligibility information and application steps are available on the organization’s platform.

Early applications are strongly encouraged due to the competitive nature of the fellowship.

FAQ – CJID OSINT Research Fellowship 2026

1. What is the CJID OSINT Research Fellowship 2026?

The CJID OSINT Research Fellowship 2026 is a capacity-building program organized by the Center for Journalism Innovation and Development to train journalists and researchers in Open Source Intelligence and conflict reporting.

2. Is the CJID OSINT Research Fellowship paid?

Yes. Selected fellows receive monthly stipends in addition to training, mentorship, and access to investigative tools.

3. Who is eligible to apply for the CJID OSINT Research Fellowship?

Eligible applicants include journalists and researchers based in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Niger States who cover conflict, governance, security, misinformation, or human rights issues.

4. What does OSINT mean?

OSINT stands for Open Source Intelligence, which involves collecting and analyzing publicly available information for investigative and research purposes.

5. Do applicants need to be affiliated with a media organization?

Applicants may be affiliated with media organizations or operate independent platforms. Both categories are eligible to apply.

6. What benefits do selected fellows receive?

Fellows receive:

Monthly stipends
Specialized training
Professional mentorship
Access to research tools
Regional networking opportunities

7. Is the CJID OSINT Research Fellowship open to all Nigerian journalists?

No. It is specifically targeted at journalists and researchers based in selected Northern Nigerian states.

8. When is the application deadline?

The deadline is listed as ongoing. Applicants are advised to apply promptly to secure consideration.

9. Why is this fellowship important?

The fellowship strengthens investigative journalism in conflict-prone regions and equips professionals with digital tools to combat misinformation.

10. How can I apply for the CJID OSINT Research Fellowship 2026?

Interested candidates should visit the official CJID webpage and follow the application instructions provided.