An innovative solutions platform, Critical Discourse & Thinking (CDT), has officially launched in Nigeria, marking a significant step in its mission to address global challenges through meaningful dialogue and critical engagement.
Founded by Henry Ikenna Ugwu, a seasoned communications expert and reform advocate, CDT aims to foster intellectual curiosity, debate, and collaboration among thinkers, innovators, and stakeholders across diverse fields.
At the launch, Ugwu described CDT as a space where “ideas converge, debate thrives, and intellectual growth happens through rigorous interrogation.”
Having already established a presence in the United States, CDT’s entry into Nigeria signals a commitment to expanding its impact on global problem-solving.
CDT operates as an interactive environment where audiences do more than just listen—they engage actively with ideas and concepts presented by thought leaders.
According to Ugwu, this approach ensures that solutions to pressing global issues are explored and refined through critical discourse.
“We believe that true breakthroughs come from challenging and interrogating ideas, not just sharing them.
“CDT is about creating a community where intellectual curiosity is encouraged and expected. Our goal is to encourage meaningful conversations that lead to sustainable solutions,” Ugwu said.
Ugwu, who has played a pivotal role in strategic communications for major projects, including Nigeria’s COVID-19 response, emphasised the importance of mobilising support for reform efforts.
He highlighted how vested interests often resist change, citing Nigeria’s fuel subsidy removal as an example.
“There’s always resistance to reforms that disrupt the status quo,” Ugwu said. “Strategic communication is essential in addressing these challenges.
It fosters behaviour change and aligns stakeholders to ensure reforms are effective and their impact on citizens is minimised.”
The CDT initiative is set to host its first live conversation in Abuja, bringing together thought leaders and the public to discuss critical issues.
Ugwu’s extensive experience with global organisations such as The World Bank, USAID, and the United Nations underscores the platform’s potential to influence change at both local and international levels.
With plans to shape the future of communications and public engagement, Ugwu is optimistic about CDT’s role in advancing societal progress. “Seeing the real-time effects of my work on society keeps me motivated,” he said. “CDT is more than a platform—it’s a movement for change.”
As CDT embarks on its Nigerian journey, it seeks to inspire a pluralism of ideas and foster meaningful connections that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
