Today marks the birthday of Fisayo Soyombo, one of Nigeria’s most courageous investigative journalists and the founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ). Known for his fearless undercover work and unwavering dedication to exposing corruption, Soyombo has built a career defined by integrity, sacrifice, and social impact.
Below are 15 key facts that capture his life, work, and contributions to journalism in Nigeria and beyond.
1. Early Life and Background
Fisayo Soyombo, born Olufisayo Babatunde Soyombo, hails from Ago-Iwoye in Ogun State, Nigeria. He was born on October 27 in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
2. Education
He attended Lawson’s Childcare Nursery and Primary School, Labso Nursery and Primary School, and African Church Grammar School, all in Abeokuta.
After spending a year at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), he transferred to the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture (Animal Science).
3. Professional Journey
Soyombo is best known as a journalist and investigative reporter who uses undercover reporting to expose corruption, injustice, and abuse of power in Nigeria.
4. Founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ)
In 2020, he established the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), a not-for-profit newsroom dedicated to promoting accountability, social justice, and press freedom.
5. Undercover Journalism and Bold Investigations
Soyombo has carried out several high-risk undercover investigations, including:
Spending five days in a police cell and eight days in Ikoyi Prison to document corruption in Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
Driving a “stolen” vehicle from Abuja to Lagos, passing 86 police checkpoints, to expose systemic bribery among law enforcement officers.
Spending three weeks undercover as a patient at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, to expose malpractice and patient abuse in mental health care.
6. Editorial Roles
He has held senior editorial positions in leading Nigerian media organisations, including SaharaReporters, where he served as Managing Editor, and TheCable, where he was the pioneer Editor.
7. Global Recognition and Fellowships
Soyombo has been recognised internationally for his exceptional journalism. He is an alumnus of the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford and a Knight-Wallace Fellow at the University of Michigan (2023–2024).
8. Awards and Impact
His investigations have led to tangible reforms, including official inquiries, public refunds, and disciplinary actions against corrupt officials. Through FIJ, he has empowered a new generation of Nigerian journalists to pursue accountability reporting.
9. Advocacy for Press Freedom
Soyombo is an outspoken advocate for press freedom and journalists’ safety. He has frequently highlighted the dangers faced by investigative reporters in Nigeria, describing journalism in the country as “a profession under siege”.
10. Threats and Intimidation
Due to the sensitive nature of his work, he has faced threats, surveillance, and harassment. In 2024, FIJ was investigated by authorities after publishing an exposé on corruption within the Nigeria Customs Service.
11. Arrest and Detention
In late 2023, Soyombo was reportedly detained by the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt while investigating oil bunkering activities. He was later released following public outcry and clarification of his professional status.
12. Signature Style and Persona
On social media, Soyombo describes himself as a “Seeker, digger and teller of hidden stories.” His followers know him for his humility, disciplined lifestyle, and commitment to factual, impactful reporting.
13. Major Investigative Series
Among his most notable works is the “Forgotten Soldiers” series, which exposed the neglect of Nigerian soldiers wounded in the fight against Boko Haram. The reports prompted national discussions on veterans’ welfare.
14. Humanitarian and Reform-Driven Focus
Beyond exposing wrongdoing, Soyombo aims to inspire systemic reform. His investigations often spotlight the plight of ordinary Nigerians, pushing for institutional accountability and better governance.
15. Legacy and Ongoing Work
Since founding FIJ in 2020 and officially launching it in January 2021, Soyombo has grown it into one of Nigeria’s most trusted independent investigative outlets. His work continues to shape conversations on transparency, ethics, and governance.
A Journalist Worth Celebrating
On his birthday, Fisayo Soyombo stands out as a symbol of courage and conviction in Nigerian journalism. His fearless pursuit of truth and justice continues to inspire both established journalists and aspiring reporters—reminding the nation that journalism, when done right, remains one of society’s most powerful tools for change.
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