We talked newsroom transformation during the recent INMA Africa News Media Summit, where three editorial leaders from different companies shared their digital transformation journeys. 

Some lessons and takeaways:

Legit in Nigeria focuses on originality in content

Legit Editor-in-Chief Rahaman Abiola laid out a few of the keys to success for Legit. One that stood out: originality in content. 

What does that mean? Move beyond the basic facts to integrate expert analysis and other context, and focus on formats beyond the written word to hook in readers.

“We ensure our stories have experience, expertise and originality,” he said.

Daily Trust in Nigeria invests in visual-first products

Daily Trust Editor-in-Chief Naziru Mikailu said his media company has focused on delivering visual content to users. The content is distributed on YouTube and TikTok and has attracted audiences.

They’ve also added podcasts and are focused on audience interest by monitoring social media.

“We created a social news desk that is looking for the best trending stories and stories that will work,” he said.

Nation Media Group in Uganda reorganises as “one newsroom”

Susan Nsibirwa, managing director of Nation Media Group, said her newsroom’s transformation has included:

• A centralised news operation.

• Niche hubs to drive non-news content.

• Centralised production talent and processes.

• A planning function for a forward-looking editorial stance.

• Cross-platform skilling across the entire newsroom.

“We’re really pushing against the tide and not trying to just exist or survive,” she said. “We’re trying to see how we can thrive in the current environment we are operating in.”

Nsibirwa said changing culture, failing fast and trying new things are key.

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