Advancing Media Professionalism: IPC, CEMESO Convenes Meeting with Key Media Operational Leaders
For Immediate Release: Monday, June 2, 2025
Lagos, Nigeria – The International Press Centre (IPC) and the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), with support from the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN II), will host a strategic engagement with key media operational leaders on Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025, as part of initiatives to explore how to strengthen ethical and professional standards in reporting Nigeria’s electoral and democratic environment.
The high-level event is also designed to foster collaboration among media executives and secure commitments towards inclusive, fair, and accountable electoral reporting.
Participants will include media executives and media managers from the broadcast, print, and online media who will exchange ideas and reach common understanding around media’s democratic responsibilities and the need for editorial policies that reflect professionalism and compliance with regulatory standards, including the National Broadcasting Code and the Nigerian Media Code of Election Coverage.
According to Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre (IPC), “As media gatekeepers, operational leaders play a decisive role in shaping narratives and setting standards. This engagement offers an opportunity to strengthen their commitment to journalism that promotes credibility, transparency, and social inclusion.”
Dr. Akin Akingbulu, Executive Director of the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), also emphasized:
“This engagement is crucial for aligning media leadership with democratic norms. By reinforcing professional ethics and editorial responsibility at the highest levels, we can ensure that the media continues to play a transformative role in Nigeria’s democratic development.”
The June 3rd convergence is one of three planned under this intervention. It will be followed by targeted outreach visits to media houses and virtual follow-up sessions, forming a multi-layered approach to deepening accountability and institutional leadership in the media sector.
The EU-SDGN II programme underscores the European Union’s strong commitment to supporting a democratic Nigeria that is pluralistic, inclusive, and participatory. The programme is built on six interconnected pillars: the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the National Assembly, the Judiciary, political parties, civil society, and the media.
By reinforcing these key democratic institutions, the programme seeks to promote a system of governance where accountability thrives, citizens are empowered, and every voice is heard.
Signed
Olutoyin Ayoade
Communications Officer
Component 4 (Support to Media)
EU-SDGN II Programme
tayoade@ipcng.org