Strategic communication is a cornerstone of effective development practice. It enables organisations and sector leaders to design b and deploy targeted strategies that clearly articulate their work, amplify impact and inspire action. As development challenges grow more complex, the ability to communicate with clarity, purpose and influence has become an indispensable skill. Unsurprisingly, strategic communication remains one of the most sought-after competencies in the development sector.
Since 2008, the Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI) has partnered with the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs (JHCCP), Baltimore, USA, to facilitate the annual Leadership in Strategic Communication Workshop (LSCW). Over the years, this globally recognised programme has brought together participants from across Africa, including Tanzania, Côte d’Ivoire, Uganda, Liberia, Ghana, Rwanda, Zambia, Kenya and Nigeria, helping to build a strong cadre of communication leaders across the continent.
In 2025, the programme evolved further with the introduction of the Leadership in Strategic Communication Masterclass (LSCM), supported by the Gates Foundation. Designed specifically for Gates Foundation grantees in Nigeria, the masterclass was a targeted capacity-strengthening experience that convened 30 communication professionals working across the country’s health and development ecosystem.
Held from 24–28 November 2025 under the theme “The Power of One: Cultivating a Culture of Connection,” the masterclass functioned both as a learning platform and a collaborative space. Over five intensive days, participants were equipped with strategic, analytical and leadership tools to navigate an increasingly dynamic communication landscape. Sessions explored behaviour change theories, audience insights, digital authenticity, gender inclusion, knowledge management, media engagement and SMART advocacy—core elements of modern, impact-driven communication practice.
Deliberately designed to go beyond technical instruction, the masterclass created space for honest reflection, shared vulnerability and peer-to-peer learning. Participants were encouraged to interrogate not only what they communicate, but how and why they do so, fostering deeper self-awareness and more intentional leadership.
The diversity of the cohort was a defining strength. Participants represented different facets of Nigeria’s policy and communication ecosystem—government institutions, civil society and community networks, as well as large-scale advocacy and public engagement initiatives. Bringing this mix into one room was intentional, aimed at strengthening not just individual capacity, but the collective fabric of communication leadership that underpins development work in Nigeria.
Structured as a highly participatory, hands-on experience, the masterclass enabled participants to apply new knowledge in real time and learn from one another’s experiences. The adult learning approach ensured an immersive and reflective process that resonated deeply with participants.
The programme was facilitated by an accomplished faculty of experts combining strong academic foundations with extensive practical experience in international and national development, health communication and leadership. Facilitators and resource persons included:
- Babafunke Fagbemi, Executive Director, Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI)
- Prof. Lere Baale, CEO, Business School Netherlands International
- Barr. Richard Akinnola, Director, Media Law Centre
- Mr. Abayomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation
- Dr. Aisiri Albert Adolor, Managing Director, RMEL Solutions LLP
- Dr. Precious Kanayo Omonoju, Programme Manager and Focal Training Manager, CCSI
- Ms. Florence Danladi Adamu, Gender Manager, CCSI
Pre- and post-assessment results showed significant improvements in participants’ knowledge and competencies, while over 90 per cent of participants reported highly positive experiences. Beyond the metrics, the masterclass succeeded in building confidence, strengthening networks and reinforcing a shared commitment to purposeful, people-centred communication.
Building on this success, CCSI plans to institutionalise the platform by hosting quarterly masterclasses for professionals seeking to deepen their leadership and strategic communication skills. In doing so, CCSI continues to invest in the people who shape narratives, influence policy and drive social change—one leader, one connection, and one powerful story at a time