The Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI), a global network of media executives, editors, and prominent journalists headquartered in Vienna, Austria, recently held its annual general meeting in Abuja, culminating in the re-election of Musikilu Mojeed, Editor-in-Chief of Premium Times, as President, and Ahmed Shekarau, Chief Executive Officer of Media Trust Group, as Secretary. Both leaders were elected unopposed for a second three-year term, reflecting the members’ confidence in their leadership and vision for the organization. This election signifies a continuation of their commitment to advancing press freedom and improving the operating environment for Nigerian media. The re-election also underscores the value placed on experience and continuity within the IPI Nigeria leadership.
Joining Mojeed and Shekarau on the newly elected executive committee are a group of experienced media professionals. Fidelis Mbah of Al Jazeera Television will serve as Deputy President, bringing his international media perspective to the leadership team. Rafatu Salami of Voice of Nigeria takes on the role of Treasurer, responsible for the financial health and stability of the organization. Yomi Adeboye of Herald Newspaper will serve as Assistant Secretary, supporting the smooth functioning of the organization’s administrative affairs. Tobi Soniyi of Arise News assumes the position of Legal Adviser, providing critical guidance on legal matters and advocating for the protection of journalists’ rights. This diverse and representative executive committee is well-positioned to address the challenges and opportunities facing the Nigerian media landscape.
Upon his re-election, President Mojeed emphasized his commitment to inclusive leadership, calling upon all members to actively participate in achieving the organization’s goals. He stressed the importance of collaboration and unity among media professionals in tackling the complex issues facing the industry. Mojeed’s appeal for collective action highlights the need for a cohesive approach to strengthen press freedom and improve working conditions for journalists in Nigeria. This commitment to inclusivity aims to ensure that all voices within the Nigerian media landscape are heard and considered in the IPI’s work.
A significant highlight of the annual general meeting was the presence of former Governor Segun Osoba, who lauded the IPI Nigeria leadership for organizing a successful conference. His attendance and endorsement underscored the importance of the event and its relevance to the broader Nigerian society. Osoba’s commendation serves as a testament to the IPI’s crucial role in promoting press freedom and fostering dialogue on critical issues affecting the media. His presence added further weight to the proceedings and reinforced the organization’s standing within the Nigerian media landscape.
The conference, which preceded the annual general meeting, featured a robust discussion on the state of press freedom in Nigeria. Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, who chaired the opening session, and Professor Tony Iredia, the keynote speaker, engaged in a thought-provoking exchange on this vital topic. Their differing perspectives highlighted the complexities surrounding press freedom in the country and the ongoing debate regarding the balance between media freedom and government regulation. This open dialogue provided a platform for exploring different viewpoints and contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and prospects for press freedom in Nigeria.
The re-election of the IPI Nigeria leadership and the engaging discussions at the annual general meeting and conference demonstrate the organization’s commitment to promoting press freedom, fostering professionalism, and advocating for the rights of journalists in Nigeria. The newly elected executive committee, with its diverse experience and expertise, is well-equipped to navigate the evolving media landscape and address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The IPI Nigeria’s continued efforts to strengthen the media’s role in a democratic society are crucial for the future of press freedom and the overall development of the country. The organization’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration among media professionals will be instrumental in ensuring a vibrant and independent press in Nigeria.
