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Obasanjo, Amaechi, media stakeholders laud ex-PUNCH Editor, Oketola, at book launch

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2 months ago

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Tuesday congratulated the immediate past Editor of The PUNCH, Dayo Oketola, during the public presentation of his book titled ‘The Catalyst: Nigerian ICT Evolution Through a Journalist’s Lens.’

The book was unveiled at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, with several dignitaries and media stakeholders gracing the occasion and pouring encomiums on the former PUNCH Editor.

Oketola bowed out as The PUNCH Editor in June this year after nearly two decades as an accomplished journalist with multiple awards nationally and internationally.

While speaking, Obasanjo, who unveiled the book, discussed the need for Nigeria to enable a conducive business environment for investors in order to attract revenue to the country.

The former President took the attendees through the history of telecommunication firms in Nigeria, especially during his time as President.

He explained how the government created a competitive environment for mobile telecommunication networks such as MTN, GLO, Airtel and 9Mobile, among others.

Obasanjo said his government achieved competition and attracted money to Nigeria.

“That opportunity can still be made available. The money to develop Nigeria is out there. That money will not come unless we create a conducive environment for that money to come.

“What we did, what Nigeria has done in the good days when things were going well are still there and can still be done today.

“When we show the character and the attribute, and we show the understanding and the knowledge to make this country a great country that God has created it to be – a land flowing with milk and honey – not a land of insecurity, not a land of lack of prosperity but a land where everybody can enough for himself or herself,” the former President said.

The event was also graced by a former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.

Amaechi, in a very brief speech, commended Oketola on the milestone achieved.

He did not fail to lament that the condition in which journalists are practising journalism in Nigeria now is worse than in the military era.

While speaking, the former Editor, Oketola, said his exaugural event was not the end of his journalism career but a mark of the end of his career as an Editor of The PUNCH.

In his introductory speech at the lecture titled ‘Print Journalism in Peril: Challenging Times for Newspaper Editors,’ Oketola said, “This occasion marks a significant milestone in my professional journey — a journey that has spanned about two decades of dedication, resilience and unwavering commitment to the ideals of journalism.”

Oketola said the media industry at this age faces critical challenges, especially with the advent of online journalism and social media, describing the moment as a time for industry players to re-strategise and harness the opportunities presented by the social realities.

He said, “As we gather here today, we find ourselves at a critical juncture in the history of print journalism. The industry faces unprecedented challenges — from the disruptive impact of social media to the evolving demands of our readership. Yet, in these challenges lie opportunities for innovation, reinvention and a reaffirmation of the core values that define our noble profession.”

He stressed that his appointment as an Editor of the most widely read newspaper in Nigeria at a young age was a testament that long years of experience were not a criterion for leadership in the newsroom as being held by some media veterans.

“This perspective (of being old to lead) is both flawed and detrimental to the dynamism of the media industry,” he said, adding, “age is indeed just a number and leadership capability is not determined solely by the length of time one has spent in the industry. Instead, leadership is shaped by dedication, creativity, hard work and often the grace of God.”

He added, “In Nigeria, some years ago, we had the ‘Not too young to rule’ mantra. In the media, we also have the ‘not too young to become a newspaper editor.’”

Other prominent dignitaries and media stakeholders who graced the occasion include the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso; the President, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Eze Anaba, and the chairman, Editorial Board, The Nation, Sam Omatseye.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, was also represented at the event.

The founder of the Love of Christ Generation Church C&S (Worldwide), Revd. Esther Ajayi, was also present just as families and friends of the ex-editor flooded the event.

The event was chaired by former Chief Executive Officer, MTN Nigeria, Michael Ikpoti, while the book review was done by the Convener, Centre for Social Media Research, Dr Akin Olaniyan.

While speaking, the Commissioner for Information in Lagos State, Omotoso, said the state government was planning new innovations in the area of ICT as it resonates with the title of the book being launched by Oketola.

The innovations according to the commissioner include the plan to provide public internet access in Lagos.

Past and present staff members and management of PUNCH Nigeria Limited also graced the event.

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Events

SEE FULL LIST: ‘Jagun Jagun’ wins six categories at 2024 BON Awards

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24 hours ago

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November 25, 2024 8:05 am

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Femi Adebayo’s epic ‘Jagun Jagun’ has won six award categories at the 2024 Best of Nollywood (BON) ceremony.

The 16th edition of the BON Awards was held on Sunday night at the Sugar Factory Film Studios in Ilorin, Kwara.

Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi, the actress, hosted the award ceremony.

At the ceremony, Femi Adebayo’s epic film ‘Jagun Jagun’ was a standout entry, winning a total of six award categories.

These include “Best Actor”, Best Costume”, “Best Indigenous Film”, “Best Production Design”, and “Best Special Effect”.

Another significant winner was the film ‘Momiwa’, which took home “Best Editing” and “Best Screenplay”.

‘Jagun Jagun’ was nominated in 12 categories.

The Netflix original Yoruba film, released in August 2023, tells the story of a warlord respected within and outside his community.

The arrival of a young man reveals his insecurities, as he fears that his authority may soon be displaced.

See the full list of winners below.

Best Cinematography

  • ADIRE

Director of the Year

  • BAYO TIJANI & TOPE ADEBAYO (Jagun Jagun)

Best Social Message

  • UNLEASHED

Best Short Film

  • OUT OF MANY

Best Actor

  • FEMI ADEBAYO (JAGUN JAGUN)

Best Actress

  • WUNMI DADA (UNKNOWN SOJA)

Best Supporting Actress

  • MERCY AIGBE (ADA OMO DADDY)

Best Supporting Actor

  • KEPPY EKPENYONG (THE WEEKEND)

Best Editing

  • MOMIWA

Best Costume

  • JAGUN JAGUN

Best Sound

  • OFFSHOOT

Best Soundtrack

  • OLOKU ADA

BEST USE OF FOOD

  • NWANYI ABACHA

Best Indigenous Film

  • JAGUN JAGUN

Best Child Actor

  • NIFEMI LAWAL

Best Child Actress

  • DARASIMI NADI (UNKNOWN SOJA)

Most Promising Actor

  • OZECHI FRANKLIN IZUCHUCHUKWU

Most Promising Actress

  • CHIOMA OKAFOR

Best Production Design

  • JAGUN JAGUN

Best Screenplay

  • MOMIWA

Best Use of Food

  • ORISA

Best Kiss

  • HALIMA GANIYU & DAVID AKANDE (ETI KETA)

Best Special Effect

  • JAGUN JAGUN

Best Documentary

  • IS IT YOUR MONEY?
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Events

JCI Nigeria Hosts The 4th Edition Of The Global Digital Economy Summit

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2 weeks ago

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November 9, 2024 6:15 pm

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The Global Digital Economy Summit (GDES) 4.0, held on 12th October 2024, at Park Inn, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, accentuates the pivotal role of international trade, foreign direct investment, and technology diffusion in shaping economies worldwide, particularly highlighting the potential for digital inclusion and trade empowerment to achieve shared prosperity in Africa.

The summit, organised by Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria in collaboration with JCI South Africa, JCI Zimbabwe, JCI Niger, JCI Benin Republic, and JCI Malaysia, attracted a diverse audience of entrepreneurs, professionals, undergraduates, and civil servants from across the globe.


Focused on “Digital Inclusion and Trade Empowerment: A Path to Shared Prosperity,” GDES 4.0 brought together leaders, innovators, and experts who shared insights into the vital role of digital technologies, intellectual property, and cross-border collaborations in shaping sustainable economic development, particularly in Africa.


The keynote address by Dr. Oluwatobiloba Moody, Director, World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), captivated the audience with his perspective on the importance of intellectual property rights in promoting innovation and economic growth.

His speech was a deep reflection on the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements.


A lively panel discussion featured experts such as Ezekiel Solesi, CEO of LIMBSimple, and Ayo Olajide, JCI South Africa’s Vice President, moderated by Ekezue Anthonia Ezenwa, JCI Nigeria’s 2024 Director of Business Opportunities.

They emphasised the necessity of digital skills for economic relevance and highlighted the importance of partnerships for business growth and sustainability.

Their insights affirmed the need for continual innovation in a progressively digital world, warning that businesses risk falling behind if they neglect emerging technological trends.


A notable highlight of the summit was the International Business Pitch Competition, which featured 10 finalists.

After rigorous training on pitch deck mastery, five finalists competed for top honours. AnyWash App (Omotola Olaifa) emerged as the winner, followed by SundryAgro Ltd. (Eyitayo Onigbinde), and FundCity (Deborah Abayomi), who took second and third place respectively.

These winners were awarded cash prizes, business development and intellectual property support from the World Intellectual Property Organisation and expert sessions with AfriGlocal Venture Capital, an important partner in this initiative.


The summit also featured goodwill messages from key figures like JCI World President Kaveen Kumaravel, and JCI Executive Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, Tetiweh Nzimah who highlighted JCI’s commitment to supporting digital innovation and youth engagement.

JCI Nigeria President, JCI Senator Sandra Ekene Efemuaye, praised the summit’s impact, encouraged participants to leverage the rich learning, networking opportunities and collaboration presented and commended the Directorate of Business Opportunities for successfully implementing a standard event.

National Director of Business Opportunities, Ekezue Anthonia Ezenwa, expressed her gratitude for the support from JCI leadership, recognising the Directorate’s role in the impactful gathering.


The outcomes of the summit were far-reaching. The top five pitch competition participants received vital business development and intellectual property support from WIPO, alongside expert sessions from AfriGlocal Venture Capital.

The partnerships and discussions set the stage for future collaborations aimed at ensuring the continued success of GDES and its initiatives.


The summit concluded with a call for governments across the globe to implement robust policies that protect digital economy assets and ensure digital inclusion for all.

It also highlighted the importance of continuous upskilling and innovation for businesses and entrepreneurs to stay competitive in an ever-evolving technological world.


We sincerely appreciate all our partners and sponsors for their dedication to the success of the summit.

We especially appreciate Bodex Media for promoting the summit’s impact across digital platforms and traditional media.


Attendees left the summit inspired to further integrate digital tools and innovative strategies into their pursuits, with anticipation already growing for the 2025 Global Digital Economy Summit 5.0, promising even greater opportunities and insights with a vision to further solidify the role of technology in creating a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous future.

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Events

Zanzibar to host 2025 Trace Awards in February

Published

4 weeks ago

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November 1, 2024 8:24 am

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Trace, the Afro-urban music and culture platform, has announced that it will hold its next award ceremony in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

The event will take place from February 24 to 26, 2025, at the luxurious Mora 5-star resort.

The ceremony will begin with a two-day summit featuring panel sessions and masterclasses on African creative industries, technology, and branding.

The award night, scheduled for February 26, will broadcast live across 25 Trace channels and in over 200 English, French, and Portuguese-speaking countries.

Olivier Laouchez, Trace co-founder and executive chairman, said the summit aims to empower African artistes with essential tools for success in the global music landscape.

“We are excited to celebrate Africa’s creative heartbeat by spotlighting music legends and rising stars,” Laouchez said.

“The awards and summit seek to empower artists with essential tools for success in today’s global landscape. The event will transform Zanzibar into a vibrant epicentre of music, culture, and innovation.”

Mudrik Ramadhan Soraga, Zanzibar’s minister of tourism, expressed pride in hosting the prestigious event, highlighting the island’s unique blend of nature, culture, and innovation.

“Zanzibar is proud to host the Trace Awards and Summit, a celebration of Africa’s vibrant music and culture on the global stage,” he said.

“This event strengthens our commitment to sustainable tourism and promotes Zanzibar as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination.

“It will showcase our island’s beauty and diversity, while highlighting our efforts to preserve its unique environment and culture. We invite the world to experience Zanzibar’s exceptional charm, where nature, culture, and innovation come together.”

The 2025 Trace Awards will feature 28 categories representing popular African music genres, including Afrobeats, Amapiano, Dancehall, Afro-pop, and more. The list of nominees will be unveiled on December 4, with voting to begin on December 18.

By hosting the Trace Awards, Zanzibar aims to position itself as a premier destination for music, culture, and innovation, promoting sustainable tourism and preserving its unique environment and culture.

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Bodex F. Hungbo, SPMIIM is a multiple award-winning Nigerian Digital Media Practitioner, Digital Strategist, PR consultant, Brand and Event Expert, Tv Presenter, Tier-A Blogger/Influencer, and a top cobbler in Nigeria.

She has widespread experiences across different professions and skills, which includes experiences in; Marketing, Media, Broadcasting, Brand and Event Management, Administration and Management with prior stints at MTN, NAPIMS-NNPC, GLOBAL FLEET OIL AND GAS, LTV, Silverbird and a host of others

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