Conversation Media Limited has successfully hosted the maiden edition of its highly anticipated Discourse Series, themed “Pathways to Inclusive Development: Rethinking Policy, Communication, and Partnership.”
The event, which took place at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Victoria Island, Lagos, drew together policymakers, academics, media professionals, entrepreneurs, and development practitioners from across Nigeria.
The Discourse Series was conceived as a thought-leadership platform to examine Nigeria’s developmental challenges and promote conversations that inspire real, actionable solutions.
The maiden edition focused on how inclusive development can be achieved through the alignment of effective policies, strategic communication, and sustainable partnerships across key sectors of society.
The keynote address, initially scheduled to be delivered by Professor Pat Utomi, was gracefully represented by Professor Ugbongo Adi, a renowned economist, academic, and public policy expert.
In his thought-provoking presentation, Professor Adi emphasized that Nigeria’s pathway to inclusive development requires more than just policy formulation, it requires coherence, accountability, and collaboration among institutions and stakeholders.
He stated that policies must be grounded in research, driven by data, and designed to serve the everyday realities of citizens.
Professor Adi further noted that communication remains a critical tool in bridging the gap between government policy and public understanding.
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According to him, “communication is not merely about disseminating information; it is about engagement, understanding, and accountability.”
He urged both government and the media to build constructive partnerships that can translate national aspirations into measurable community impact.
A vibrant panel discussion followed the keynote address, featuring experts from the media, government, private sector, and academia.
The session explored various dimensions of the theme, focusing on how policy decisions can be better communicated to the public, how cross-sector partnerships can accelerate growth, and the necessity of inclusive policies that target the root causes of poverty and inequality.
Panelists agreed that inclusive development must go beyond policy rhetoric to tangible, people-centered initiatives that empower communities and foster shared prosperity.
They emphasized that the media has a crucial role not only as a watchdog but as an enabler of progress — helping to shape national discourse, foster transparency, and promote citizen engagement.
Participants at the event described the Discourse Series as a timely and visionary initiative, given Nigeria’s current economic and social realities.
They praised Conversation Media Limited for creating a credible and neutral platform that brings together diverse voices to discuss national development issues with depth and objectivity.
Many attendees expressed optimism that the lessons and insights from the event would serve as a catalyst for more innovative and collaborative approaches to addressing Nigeria’s development challenges.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Victor Ikem, the Chief Host and Managing Director of Conversation Media Limited, expressed profound gratitude to all guests, speakers, and panelists for their active participation and contributions.
He noted that the Discourse Series is designed to be a continuous platform that bridges the gap between policy and communication while fostering dialogue that drives meaningful change.
Dr. Ikem stated, “At Conversation Media Limited, we believe that development begins with dialogue, dialogue that is inclusive, honest, and action-oriented.
This discourse is part of our commitment to ensuring that important national issues are discussed with the depth and clarity they deserve.
We are proud to host this maiden edition and look forward to sustaining it as an annual platform for collaboration, learning, and national progress.”
The event concluded with a strong sense of optimism as participants engaged in networking sessions and shared ideas on future collaborations.
The maiden edition of the Discourse Series successfully established itself as a relevant forum for examining the intersections of policy, communication, and partnership in national development.
As the curtains closed on this inaugural gathering, it was evident that Conversation Media Limited, under the leadership of Dr. Victor Ikem, had set a solid foundation for a tradition of meaningful, solution-driven conversations that will continue to shape Nigeria’s development narrative in the years ahead.
