Introduction
Applications are now open for the Train-the-Trainer (ToT) Programme – Digital Democracy Champions, an exciting initiative by Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) and FactCheckAfrica, with support from the Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI) / CIVICUS.
The programme aims to strengthen digital integrity, combat AI-driven misinformation, and promote inclusive civic participation ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections. Over 100 young adults, educators, journalists, and civil society representatives will receive practical training in AI fact-checking, digital literacy, electoral monitoring, and community engagement.
Successful participants will become Digital Democracy Champions, leading digital literacy campaigns and helping protect democratic processes across Nigeria.
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Programme Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Train-the-Trainer (ToT) – Digital Democracy Champions |
| Organisers | Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) & FactCheckAfrica |
| Supported By | Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI) / CIVICUS |
| Training Mode | Virtual |
| Training Period | August 2026 |
| Programme Duration | 9 Months |
| Country | Nigeria |
| Target Participants | 100+ Participants |
| Deadline | 29 July 2026 (11:59 PM WAT) |
About the Programme
The Digital Democracy Champions Programme is designed to prepare participants to identify and counter digital misinformation while promoting credible civic engagement.
Participants will learn how to detect AI-generated misinformation, verify election-related information, report electoral incidents, and educate their communities using modern digital verification tools.
Training Pillars
1. Countering Disinformation
Participants will receive practical training on:
- AI-generated misinformation detection
- Deepfake identification
- MyAIFactChecker (Web & WhatsApp)
- Digital verification techniques
2. Electoral Monitoring
Training includes:
- EVIT incident reporting
- Three-stage verification process
- Election integrity monitoring
- Reporting verified electoral incidents
3. Civic Mobilisation
Participants will also learn:
- Online Gender-Based Violence (OGBV) prevention
- Community advocacy
- Youth civic engagement
- YVoteNaija campaign amplification
Eligibility Criteria
Applications are welcome from:
- Young adults aged 18–35 years
- Exceptional applicants above 35 years (considered)
- Teachers and educators
- School administrators
- NGO and CSO staff
- Volunteers
- Youth-led organisations
- Journalists
- Community radio practitioners
- Student union leaders
- Youth leaders
Priority Applicants
Special consideration will be given to:
- Women
- Girls
- Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
- Applicants from Lagos, Rivers, Abia, Kano, Borno, and Kwara
Applicants from all Nigerian states and the FCT are encouraged to apply.
Benefits
Successful participants will receive:
- AI & Deepfake Detection Training
- Certificate of Completion
- EVIT Platform Training
- MyAIFactChecker Training
- Digital Safety Skills
- National Network of Digital Democracy Champions
- Community Engagement Support
- Token Stipend for Post-Training Activities
Champion Responsibilities
Selected participants will serve from August 2026 to January 2027.
Responsibilities include:
Digital Literacy Champion
- Serve as a trusted local resource on AI misinformation and digital literacy.
Peer Educator
- Conduct at least one community fact-checking session for 20+ participants.
EVIT Reporter
- Submit verified electoral incident reports every month.
Platform Ambassador
- Promote MyAIFactChecker within local communities.
Content Advocate
- Share verified information and prebunking materials.
Feedback Contributor
- Submit monthly activity reports.
Code of Conduct
Participants are expected to:
- Share only verified information
- Maintain confidentiality
- Promote inclusion
- Remain politically neutral
- Respond promptly to programme coordinators
- Fulfil assigned responsibilities
Time Commitment
Training
- 2–3 days virtual training (August 2026)
Community Activities
- Approximately 4–6 hours monthly
Reporting
- Around 1–2 hours monthly
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- Interest in digital literacy
- Fact-checking experience
- Civic engagement
- Leadership potential
- Motivation
- Communication skills
- Community outreach plans
- Geographic representation
- Inclusion of underserved communities
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Complete the online application form.
- Provide personal information.
- Submit affiliation details.
- Explain digital literacy experience.
- Write a motivation statement.
- Provide reference information.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
| Applications Open | Now |
| Application Deadline | 29 July 2026 (11:59 PM WAT) |
| Virtual Training | August 2026 |
| Champion Activities | August 2026 – January 2027 |
Why Apply?
This programme provides an excellent opportunity to:
- Build AI and digital verification skills
- Learn from leading fact-checking organisations
- Receive professional certification
- Expand your national network
- Promote credible information in your community
- Contribute to Nigeria’s democratic process
- Gain leadership experience
- Participate in a nationally recognised civic initiative
Official Application Link
📌 Apply through the official Google Application Form released by BBYDI & FactCheckAfrica.
FAQs
Who can apply?
Young adults, educators, journalists, CSO representatives, volunteers, and community leaders in Nigeria.
Is the programme free?
Yes. Selected participants receive training at no cost.
Is the training online?
Yes. Training sessions will be conducted virtually.
Will participants receive a certificate?
Yes. Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a Certificate of Completion.
Is there financial support?
Yes. A token stipend will support approved post-training community activities.
How many participants will be selected?
More than 100 participants across Nigeria.
What is the application deadline?
29 July 2026 (11:59 PM WAT).
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