The Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Lagos, has officially announced the commencement of its admission exercise for the 2025/2026 academic session. This is great news for candidates who have always dreamed of building a career in the media, communication, or journalism field.
NIJ remains one of the leading institutions in Nigeria for the training of professionals in journalism, broadcasting, public relations, advertising, and communication-related fields. Every year, the school attracts hundreds of young people and working professionals who want to sharpen their skills and earn recognized certificates, diplomas, and postgraduate qualifications.
The management of NIJ has now opened its doors to fresh applicants who are interested in National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), Postgraduate Diploma (PGD), and several short-term certificate programmes.
Programmes Available
The institution has outlined the programmes available for the 2025/2026 academic year, alongside their entry requirements.
A. Regular Programmes
i) National Diploma (ND) in Mass Communication
This is a two-year full-time programme designed for fresh secondary school graduates who want to begin their journey into journalism and communication.
Requirements:
- Candidates must have five (5) credit passes at O’Level, including English Language, Literature-in-English, and Mathematics, obtained in not more than two sittings (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB accepted).
- Candidates are also expected to have sat for the 2025 UTME and must have chosen NIJ as a preferred institution or be ready to process a change of institution to NIJ.
ii) Higher National Diploma (HND)
This is a two-year programme designed for candidates who have completed their National Diploma in Mass Communication and wish to advance further.
Available options include:
- Journalism and Media Studies
- Strategic Communication and Media Studies
Requirements: Applicants must have:
- The same O’Level requirements as the ND programme.
- A National Diploma (ND) in Mass Communication with at least Lower Credit.
- At least one year of mandatory industrial training (IT) after the ND.
iii) Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)
The PGD is designed for university and polytechnic graduates who want to build professional skills in the media and communication space, regardless of their previous discipline.
Available options include:
- Print Journalism
- Broadcast Journalism
- Public Relations/Advertising
Requirements: A good HND or university degree in any field of study. This programme is also suitable for graduates from non-communication backgrounds who want to switch careers.
B. Short-Term Programmes
Apart from the regular diploma and postgraduate programmes, NIJ also provides short-term, skill-based training for individuals who want to learn specific aspects of communication and media practice. These are flexible and often held on weekends to accommodate working professionals.
i) Proficiency Certificate in Photojournalism (Weekends only)
- Category A: Practicing photojournalists who want professional training.
- Category B: Amateur photographers who want to improve their craft.
Duration: 4 months.
ii) Basic Photography Training
For beginners who want to learn the foundations of photography.
iii) Proficiency Certificate in Photography (Weekends only)
A short but intensive programme focused on modern photography skills.
iv) Proficiency Certificate in Writing and Communication (Saturdays only)
This programme is open to those who want to learn or improve their writing and communication skills.
Duration: 4 months.
In addition to the above, NIJ also organizes regular training workshops on communication, media, and related areas. These workshops provide opportunities for professionals to upgrade their skills and remain relevant in a fast-changing media industry.
Why Choose NIJ?
There are many reasons why NIJ has remained a top choice for students and professionals in Nigeria:
Practical Learning: NIJ places strong emphasis on hands-on training, not just theory. Students learn by doing real media work.
Experienced Lecturers: The institute has seasoned lecturers and professionals from the media industry.
Flexible Options: The school provides both full-time and part-time options, making it easier for working-class students.
Recognized Certificates: NIJ certificates, diplomas, and postgraduate diplomas are highly respected within and outside Nigeria.
Strong Alumni Network: Many of today’s successful journalists, broadcasters, and PR professionals in Nigeria are NIJ alumni.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are advised to obtain their admission forms directly from the official NIJ website: www.nij.edu.ng
Alternatively, candidates may visit the school in person at:
The Registrar,
Nigerian Institute of Journalism,
8–14, Ijaye Road, Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos.
Applicants are strongly advised not to obtain forms from unauthorized sources to avoid scams or misinformation.
Contact Information
For enquiries or further assistance, candidates can reach NIJ through the following contact details:
- Phone Numbers: 0703 9221 173, 0805 9196 459, 0802 3252 756
- Email: info@nij.edu.ng
- Website: www.nij.edu.ng
Final Reminder
The 2025/2026 admission window is now officially open, and all eligible candidates are encouraged to apply early. Whether you are a fresh school leaver seeking admission into ND, a diploma holder looking to upgrade to HND, a graduate considering a PGD, or a professional aiming to sharpen your skills through short courses, NIJ has a place for you.
Take advantage of this opportunity, complete your application on time, and begin your journey towards becoming a professional in journalism, media, communication, and related fields.