By Ehis Agbon, Abuja, Nigeria.
Everything is set for the inaugural International Media Conference—an intellectual convergence of media professionals, policymakers, academics, and civil society organizations. Scheduled to take place from May 28 to 29, 2025, the conference will delve into the intricate challenges surrounding media regulation across Africa.
Speaking with ProcyonNews, Matthew Okoduwa, Rector of the Broadcast Arts Institute in Lagos and Chief Convener of the conference, said the event is designed to foster deep and meaningful dialogue on the evolving landscape of media regulation.
According to Okoduwa, “The media landscape in Africa is undeniably at a pivotal crossroads.” He continued, “The media’s ability to serve its watchdog role is increasingly constrained by a complex web of laws, regulations, and policies that often prioritize state or external interests over freedom of expression.”
He explained that Africa’s media environment is shaped by a blend of liberal and authoritarian systems, each with its own regulatory framework. “While some countries have made notable progress in advancing press freedom, others still enforce repressive laws that silence dissent and limit journalistic freedom,” he said.
In response to these challenges, the First International Media Conference—under the theme Exploring Media Regulations in Africa: Balancing Regulation and Freedom of Expression—aims to gather key stakeholders to unpack the continent’s regulatory climate and discuss solutions for protecting press freedom.
At least six professors, led by Professor Tonnie Iredia, are expected to present scholarly papers. Iredia will deliver the keynote address titled Media, Politics, and Power in Africa: Understanding the Complex Dynamics of Regulation, Propaganda, and Freedom. His presentation will lay the foundation for the conference, focusing on the balance between regulation and press freedom.
Other sessions will include a paper on The State of Media Freedom in Africa: Challenges, Opportunities, and Prospects, exploring both the hurdles and future potential for media practitioners on the continent.
The event will also feature regional reports from Africa’s five geopolitical zones, presented by media scholars and professionals. Workshops and masterclasses will be held, including a practical training session for journalists and policymakers on Media Law and Policy Advocacy Strategies.
A special session will bring together all speakers to form a committee tasked with proposing a sustainable roadmap for improved media regulation across Africa.
Additionally, the conference will include Aspire Night, an awards segment that will honor individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to media development in Africa.
“The First International Media Conference is a rallying call to all stakeholders who care about the future of media in Africa. It’s a chance to engage, exchange ideas, and collectively shape a more free, independent, and pluralistic media landscape,” Okoduwa said.
