Reporter (Igbo) at the BBC World Service

Africa’s media landscape is changing. It is one of the fastest developing news markets in the world with mobile technology transforming lives, internet connectivity increasing, the radio market remaining relatively strong and Television migrating from analogue to digital.

The BBC World Service remains the leading international broadcaster in Africa, reaching a weekly audience of more than 100 million across all platforms and Social Media. Globally, the BBC reaches a weekly audience of 320 million weekly across various platforms.

Over the next four years, the BBC World Service will be expanding its multimedia operations in Africa by doubling the number of language services from 6 to 12.

Three of the new language services, Igbo, Yoruba and Pidgin, will serve our audiences in Nigeria and West Africa. They will be based in Lagos, working alongside our operation in Abuja from where the BBC currently produces its Hausa service output. There is a strong emphasis on reaching and connecting with young audiences.

We are now looking for a reporter with strong journalism, digital and language skills (Igbo and English) to work in Enugu. This role involves working irregular hours including weekends and public holidays.

Role Responsibilities

• The BBC is looking for an excellent reporter to produce a dynamic range of digital, audio and video content which will appeal to a young audience.
• The successful candidate will have some experience of reporting for a digital media organization.
• Fluent in Igbo and English (written and spoken), you will have experience of field reporting, delivering creative output for digital and social media platforms.
• An excellent knowledge of local, regional and international news and current affairs is essential, including a good understanding of a broad editorial agenda.
• You will have knowledge of and recent experience of living in the target area, including a good understanding of the complexities of Nigeria.
• Ability to work under pressure and react to breaking news is essential.
• You must be a self-starter, with a strong ability to work independently.
• You must have work authorization for Nigeria.

The Ideal Candidate

• A full command and up to date knowledge of Igbo as first (or equivalent) language is essential. An additional language - Yoruba, Pidgin, Hausa - is desirable.
• An excellent knowledge of English including complete comprehension of written and spoken English for journalism and the ability to communicate effectively.
• A digital media background and social media journalism experience preferable, you will ideally have a strong screen presence for coverage online and on social media.
• A good broadcasting voice and presence and the ability to acquire the appropriate presentation style to communicate effectively with listeners in Igbo and English
• Experience of field reporting on political, economic and trending social issues in Nigeria is desirable. So is the ability to demonstrate a good range of contacts for interview purposes.
• Updated in-depth knowledge of Igbo/Nigerian/West African affairs including social issues. A thorough knowledge of wider regional or international affairs will be an advantage.
• A good understanding of the needs of a young digitally-savvy audience in the region is essential.

Package Description

• Contract: Continuing
• Salary: Local Terms and Conditions Apply.

Application Closing Date
4th July, 2017.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online