The CEO of AkweyaTV, Mr. Odoh Diego Okenyodo, was recently honoured with a Recognition Award for scholarly excellence and community service during the International Communication Association (ICA) Nigeria’s 2nd Anniversary Dialogue in Lafia.
As a key member of the chapter’s organising committee, Okenyodo played a crucial role in establishing ICA’s presence in Nigeria. Chairman George Ekaete highlighted his outstanding contributions to the 2023 founding team, which has since grown into a robust 110-member network comprising researchers, students from 20 Nigerian universities, and media practitioners across all six geopolitical zones.
The anniversary event provided an opportunity to reflect on significant milestones achieved since ICA Nigeria’s launch by then-ICA President Prof. Noshir Contractor on March 24, 2023. Key accomplishments include hosting nine Quarterly Seminar Series covering communication research and sustainability, establishing national conference centres in collaboration with local institutions, and conducting human rights advocacy through national media campaigns.
However, the chapter has faced challenges, including funding shortfalls and limited local participation. Looking ahead, ICA Nigeria plans to expand mentorship programmes for alumni, achieve representation in all 36 states, and strengthen international partnerships with other ICA chapters.
A major upcoming initiative is the launch of ICA Nigeria’s ICA25 Regional Conference Hub, scheduled for Calabar from June 12-16, 2025. Prospective participants can find registration information at www.icahdq.org/Chapter-nigeria, while institutions or members interested in sponsoring panel sessions are invited to submit their details two weeks in advance.
Chairman George expressed gratitude to advisors, executives, and ICA global leadership for their continued support, stating, “We remain committed to advancing communication scholarship as a bridge to national development.”
As ICA Nigeria approaches its third anniversary, members are encouraged to strengthen diaspora networks. Okenyodo’s recognition exemplifies the power of collaborative scholarship—a model the chapter aims to replicate nationwide.
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