The Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has announced that its annual general congress will take place on December 11 and 12 in Abuja, Nigeria’s federal capital.
In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, the group’s secretary, Ahmed Shekarau, confirmed that the congress will be a three-part event. It will include a conference on December 11, an annual general meeting and the election of new officials on December 12, and a dinner on the night of December 12.
Shekarau noted that all events will be held at the Abuja Continental Hotel (formerly Sheraton Hotel).
The conference, themed “Democracy, Media Freedom, and the Imperative of Protecting Nigeria’s Civic Space,” aims to provide attendees with an opportunity to discuss challenges affecting journalism and strategies for navigating difficult environments.
“The conference will also enable journalists to engage with leaders of key security agencies and seek collaborative solutions to the frequent clashes between journalists and security agencies,” he said.
“The sessions are structured to allow participants to share experiences and learn from one another on how to thrive as media practitioners in challenging contexts.
The deliberations are expected to significantly enhance discussions and contribute to a more favourable media environment in Nigeria.”
Shekarau added that IPI Nigeria will hold a members-only meeting on December 12. During this meeting, the executive committee, led by Musikilu Mojeed, will present its report, and members will elect new officials. The current executive committee’s tenure ends on December 16.
“To ensure a smooth transition, the Trustees of IPI Nigeria have established an electoral committee to oversee the elections for executive positions, as outlined in our constitution,” Mr Shekarau explained. “Further details about the electoral committee and election guidelines will be shared in the coming days.”
The 2024 congress will conclude on the evening of December 12 with a dinner for the organisation’s members, partners, and supporters.
The International Press Institute (IPI), headquartered in Vienna, Austria, is a global network of media executives, editors, and prominent journalists. Since its founding in 1950, it has consistently advocated for journalists’ rights and media freedom worldwide.
IPI Nigeria, the local branch of IPI Global, promotes credible and independent journalism, media freedom, freedom of speech, and the free flow of information in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country and largest economy.
