After three days of deep learning, bold conversations, and powerful reflections on the future of journalism, the 2026 edition of the Change Your Story (CYS) capacity workshop sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited came to a memorable close

Meanwhile, it was with a strong call on journalists to embrace innovation and lead a new wave of digital storytelling in Nigeria.

So, from the opening session to the final moments of the programme, the atmosphere was one of discovery and transformation.

Impressively, journalists from different newsrooms gathered not only to sharpen their professional skills but also to rethink the way stories are told in an era shaped by artificial intelligence, multimedia platforms and rapidly changing audience behaviour.

In that way, the three-day workshop, facilitated by The Journalism Clinic, forms part of NLNG’s broader vision to support professional journalism, strengthen media capacity and contribute to the growth of a vibrant information ecosystem in Nigeria.

Bringing the workshop to a close, Sophia Horsfall delivered an inspiring message that captured the spirit of the training and the responsibility that now rests on the shoulders of the participants.

Addressing the journalists as storytellers, trailblazers and future changemakers, she described the workshop as an intense but rewarding journey that had challenged participants to rethink their craft and embrace new possibilities.

“What a whirlwind these past three days have been,” she said, reflecting on the demanding but enriching sessions that explored artificial intelligence, multimedia storytelling and modern newsroom tools.

According to her, the programme was designed not just to equip journalists with technical knowledge but to help them develop the mindset required to thrive in a rapidly evolving media environment.

She emphasized that participants were leaving the programme with far more than certificates.

“You are not walking away with just a certificate,” she told the audience. “You are leaving as a transformed network of voices ready to influence change.”

Encouraging the journalists to immediately put their newly acquired skills into practice, Horsfall highlighted the growing importance of mobile-first storytelling in modern journalism.

She described the smartphone as a powerful reporting tool capable of transforming how stories are captured, produced and shared with audiences.

“Grab that smartphone in your pocket,” she said. “It is your secret weapon. Use everything you have learned during these three days and begin to change your story right away.”

She also reaffirmed NLNG’s long-standing commitment to supporting the media industry, noting that journalists play a critical role in shaping national conversations and public understanding of key issues.

“NLNG stands with you as a strategic ally,” she stated. “While we power nations with energy and contribute revenue to our country, you power the minds of citizens with stories that inspire change.”

Horsfall expressed optimism that the knowledge gained during the training would soon be reflected in stronger reporting, more engaging storytelling and deeper investigative journalism across Nigerian newsrooms.

According to her, the organisation looks forward to seeing the “new standard” reflected in the participants’ future works

from compelling feature stories to impactful investigative reports and multimedia productions.

She also took time to appreciate the facilitators who guided participants through the intensive sessions, praising their commitment and energy throughout the programme.

At the same time, she commended the journalists themselves for their enthusiasm, curiosity and active participation during the training.

“A massive shout-out to our phenomenal facilitators,” she said. “But the real stars are you  the participants  for the passion and commitment you brought into every session.”

Since its launch in 2014, the Change Your Story initiative has grown into one of Nigeria’s most respected journalism training programmes, equipping hundreds of media professionals with essential skills in digital storytelling, audience engagement and modern newsroom practices.

With the conclusion of the 2026 edition, participants are expected to return to their respective newsrooms with stronger competencies in artificial intelligence tools, multimedia reporting and mobile journalism  skills increasingly considered essential for journalists operating in today’s digital information environment.

As the workshop came to a close, Horsfall urged participants to carry forward the energy and insights gained during the programme and to use them to produce stories that inform, inspire and drive meaningful change.

“The bar has not only been raised,” she concluded. “It has been lifted even higher. Now go out there, change your story  and help change the world.”