The Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has announced the commencement of entries for the Dr. Goodluck Jonathan Freedom of Information (FOI) Awards 2026, aimed at recognizing excellence in journalism that promotes transparency and accountability through the effective use of the FOI Act, 2011.
Named after former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR — who signed the FOI Act into law on May 28, 2011 — the awards feature two categories celebrating journalists’ roles in deepening access to public information and promoting open governance.
According to a statement issued by MRA, the Most Active User of the FOI Act category will honour a journalist with the highest verifiable number of information requests made under the Act between May 28, 2011, and December 31, 2025.
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The second category, Most Outstanding Promoter of the FOI Act, will recognize a journalist who has significantly advanced public awareness and understanding of the FOI Act, its provisions, and benefits through consistent advocacy and media engagement.
MRA stated that the initiative aims to inspire more journalists to utilize the FOI Act as a tool for investigative reporting and public accountability. Eligible applicants must be Nigerian journalists working in print, broadcast, online, or multimedia platforms, and must not have been found guilty of professional misconduct.
All entries must include an application form and relevant supporting documentation such as acknowledged copies of FOI requests or published works, depending on the category.
The deadline for submissions is January 31, 2026, at 23:59 WAT, while the winners will be announced at an award ceremony in Abuja on May 28, 2026, coinciding with the 15th anniversary of the FOI Act.
Winners in each category will receive a plaque, certificate, and prize.
For applications and further inquiries, interested journalists can contact foi_awards@mediarightsagenda.org.
