Health Journalist at Nigeria Health Watch

Job Summary

• The Health Journalist will be the driving force behind impactful content that sparks dialogue, influences policy, and champions better healthcare for all.
• S/he will craft captivating articles, reports, and features that resonate with audiences, raise awareness, and spark dialogue.
• S/he will uncover hidden stories, hold power to account, and advocate for health equity through impactful journalism.
• The candidate should be a skilled storyteller who can weave words into captivating narratives and is passionate about investigative journalism.

Scope of Services
Content Creation & Storytelling

• Craft compelling and informative articles, reports, and features on a diverse range of health topics, including disease outbreaks, healthcare access, policy decisions, and social determinants of health.
• Conduct in-depth research and interviews with experts, policymakers, healthcare workers, and community members to gather diverse perspectives and ensure accurate reporting.
• Develop engaging narratives that resonate with audiences, raise awareness, and inspire action.
• Research and write public health-focused stories from a solutions journalism lens.
• Utilize various digital storytelling formats like written articles, videos, podcasts, and infographics to reach a wider audience and maximize impact.
• Uncover hidden stories and hold power to account by investigating health-related injustices, corruption, and systemic issues impacting access to quality care.
• Analyze complex data and research findings to translate them into clear, understandable, and actionable insights for the public.
• Develop data-driven stories and reports that inform policy discussions and advocacy efforts.
• Foster dialogue and discussions around health issues through social media engagement, public events, and online forums.
• Build relationships with key stakeholders in the health sector, including NGOs, government agencies, and community organizations.
• Contribute to building a vibrant online community around health awareness and advocacy.

General Support:

• Foster productive relationships with healthcare organizations, industry influencers, and media outlets to explore and pursue strategic collaborations that amplify our reach and impact.
• Proactively seek out and identify opportunities to contribute beyond your core responsibilities, demonstrating initiative and a willingness to support the broader team and organizational goals.
• Undertake additional tasks as assigned or needed.

Essential Competence & Skills

• Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, Communication, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience writing for online and/or print publications, preferably focusing on health or development issues.
• Strong research and investigative skills, with the ability to gather and analyze information from diverse sources.
• Excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and engaging content for various audiences.
• Proficient in digital tools and platforms, including social media and content management systems.
• Knowledge of using basic video editing and graphic design is an added advantage.
• Passionate about health equity and social justice and committed to using journalism to drive positive change.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Experience in investigative journalism.
• Knowledge of the Nigerian healthcare system and health challenges facing the country.
• Multilingual skills, including fluency in Hausa or other Nigerian languages.
• Experience working in non-profit or advocacy organizations.