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Check FAQAbout Samuel
Samuel Okocha is a journalist based in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos. He has extensive experience as a broadcaster, news editor, and freelance multimedia journalist.
As a multimedia journalist, he has produced content for international broadcast media outlets such as Voice of America, NPR, Euronews and Radio France International. In addition to producing original content for radio and television, he has also appeared live, providing insights on breaking news and current events from Nigeria, on various news media, including CBC News Network, CBS News radio, BBC Ulster, TRT, Alhurra TV and VOA. As well as working with broadcast media, he as deep and broad experience in writing about Nigeria and several African countries for specialist publications. A Bloomberg certified journalist, he currently edits commodity news at a Pan African investment research agency.
He is also a documentary and street photographer and author of the photobook From Nobody to Somebody: A Journalist’s Lagos Diary, which is listed on Amazon.
FURTHER NOTES:
1. Experience with video rushes and fully produced packages for television
2. Experience with tape syncing and complete sound reporting for radio
3. Generally available during weekends and the holiday season
4. Generally available for live phoner for radio and television
5. Specialties: Clarity, conciseness and absolute attention to facts, details and deadlines.
English
Igbo
Yoruba
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Portfolio
Nigeria’s Information Minister Outlines Five-Pillar Agenda at Press Briefing
Mohammed Idris, Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, has announced a five-pillar agenda to restore trust, amplify policies and programs, reorient national values, modernize technology and talent, and create a supportive environment for the media. This agenda supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope vision. The announcement was made during the maiden edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Series in Abuja, where Idris emphasized the importance of timely and proactive public communications. The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, also spoke at the event, discussing his ministry's efforts to implement the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Information Minister Unveils Blueprint for National Values Charter
Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, unveiled the blueprint for a new National Values Charter (NVC) in Abuja, aiming to establish core values for all Nigerians and foster a national culture. The NVC addresses issues like ethnic tensions and corruption, and is designed to be youth-centric and technology-driven. Acknowledging the challenges faced by Nigerians, Idris emphasized collective responsibility for the country's progress. The NVC will be incorporated into the national curriculum and the President will formally unveil it soon. The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency highlighted the importance of values for national development, echoing the words of the late philosopher Obafemi Awolowo.
VON Joins Forces With Media Trust To Combat Fake News
Voice of Nigeria and Media Trust have agreed to collaborate on training, content sharing, and combating fake news. The partnership aligns with the government's Renewed Hope Agenda, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. VON's Director General, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, emphasized the importance of countering fake news to protect Nigeria's image. Media Trust, which publishes the Daily Trust newspaper, is looking to expand internationally and will work with VON on trainings and joint productions.
VON, NOA Partner to Promote National Culture
Voice of Nigeria and the National Orientation Agency are collaborating to promote national culture and combat fake news. The partnership aims to support the Renewed Hope Agenda and the National Lifestyle Charter, which outlines the social contract between the government and citizens. The charter will be unveiled by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and is part of efforts to define what it means to be Nigerian.
Information Minister reiterates commitment to Digital Switch Over
Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasized the federal government's commitment to the Digital Switch Over (DSO) project, which aims to transition the country's broadcasting sector from analogue to digital. The announcement was made at the Nigerian Television Authority's Management Conference and Retreat in Abuja. The DSO project, initiated in Jos in 2016, has partially covered eight of Nigeria's thirty-six states. The new administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu supports the project, with the ministry focusing on a blueprint for nationwide rollout to enhance the broadcasting industry with better programming, revenue, and viewer experience.
Nigeria commits To youth empowerment through Media, Information Literacy
Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reaffirmed the country's commitment to empowering youth through Media and Information Literacy (MIL) during the Global MIL Week. The event, held at the UN House in Abuja, highlighted the importance of MIL in combating misinformation and disinformation. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and representative Diallo Abdourahamane emphasized the need for critical thinking and media literacy in the digital age. The Nigerian government calls on all stakeholders to support MIL initiatives to enhance citizens' capacities and uphold freedom of expression.
Nigeria Praises Super Eagles For AFCON Run
Nigeria's government has praised the Super Eagles for their performance in the 2023 African Cup of Nations, where they reached the final but lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast. Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed pride and support for the team, highlighting their resilience and unity. The Super Eagles, coached by Jose Peseiro, featured a mix of young talents and experienced veterans. The next AFCON will be held in 2025 in Morocco.
Information Minister Visits VON, Preaches Value Reorientation And Patriotism
Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, emphasized the importance of value reorientation and patriotism during his visit to the Voice of Nigeria's headquarters in Abuja. He highlighted the need for honest and credible information to unite and progress the country. The Minister's visit aimed to strengthen the relationship between the Ministry and the media house. Osita Okechukwu, the Director-General of VON, expressed support for the Minister's appointment and discussed VON's efforts to modernize and promote Nigeria positively, countering negative perceptions on social media. The Minister promised to address VON's funding and technological needs to enhance its global reach and efficiency.
Information Minister Reiterates Support for UNESCO’s Institute in Nigeria
The Nigerian government, represented by Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, reaffirms its commitment to establishing a UNESCO Category 2 Institute for Media and Information Literacy (MIL) in Nigeria. This initiative, endorsed by UNESCO, aims to enhance media literacy and capacity building in Africa. During a bilateral meeting at UNESCO's 42nd General Conference in Paris, Idris emphasized the importance of this sector and expressed gratitude to key figures like Ambassador Hajo Sani for their support. UNESCO's Assistant Director-General, Dr. Tawfik Jelassi, praised Nigeria's active participation and pledged continued support for the country's information and communication development.
Information Minister Calls For Patriotism, Collaboration with military
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized the need for patriotism and national orientation among Nigerians during a meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officers. Idris highlighted the ministry's role in supporting military operations against terrorism and criminal activities, and stressed the importance of collaboration between the military and the media. He also expressed appreciation for the Armed Forces' efforts and addressed the recent air strike incident in Tudun Wada. General Musa underscored the significance of winning public support in asymmetric warfare and the critical role of information dissemination.
Information Minister Urges Media To Support Economic Reforms
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on the media to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's economic reforms, which aim to create jobs and prosperity. The reforms include restructuring the security architecture and fighting crude oil theft. Idris emphasized the importance of media in communicating hope and maintaining journalistic integrity. He highlighted the induction of new aircraft into the Nigeria Air Force and the President's efforts to address insecurity through social investment programs. The Minister was represented by Dili Ezughah at a national security conference.
Jaiz Bank, Voice of Nigeria Seek Partnership To Boost SMEs
Jaiz Bank and Voice of Nigeria are exploring a partnership to support SMEs as part of the Nigerian government's Renewed Hope Agenda. The collaboration aims to promote Nigeria's image and provide financial solutions to SMEs, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's vision of creating opportunities beyond white-collar jobs. Jaiz Bank, known for its ethical and Islamic banking principles, and Voice of Nigeria, the country's external radio service, discussed potential synergies during a meeting in Abuja.
Promote Local Content To Curb Capital Flight – Information Minister
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, advocates for the promotion of local content in advertising to curb capital flight and create jobs. During his visit to the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), he commended the agency's efforts in promoting local content and innovation. ARCON's Director General, Olalekan Sadolapo, emphasized the importance of using Nigeria as an advertising hub. The visit aligns with the administration's Renewed Hope Agenda.
VON Partners With Public Relations Institute
Voice of Nigeria (VON) Director General Malam Jibrin Baba Ndace welcomed a delegation from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) led by President Ike Neliaku to deepen their partnership. The NIPR team congratulated Ndace on his appointment and sought collaboration on initiatives like Rebirth Nigeria. Ndace emphasized the importance of creating the right narratives for Nigeria, while Neliaku praised Ndace's professionalism and welcomed VON's offer to host a weekly program on public relations. The meeting supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.
Harnessing Nigeria’s Tourism, Culture, and Creative Industries for Economic Growth
In 2022, Nigeria hosted the first UNWTO Global Conference on Tourism, Culture, and the Creative Industry, marking a significant milestone for the country's tourism sector. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic's impact, Nigeria's tourism and creative industries show immense potential, with the creative sector generating $4.2 billion in 2022. The sector, driven by young talent and improved access to technology, has room for growth and could create an additional 2.7 million jobs in the next 4 to 5 years. To realize this potential, Nigeria must enhance security, infrastructure, and business environments to attract investments and tourists.
Information Minister Calls For Collaboration With PR Professionals
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged the newly elected officials of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's 8-point agenda to enhance the country's image. During a courtesy visit by the NIPR Board, Idris assured them of the ministry's support and emphasized the need for sectoral specialization to boost professionalism. NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku outlined plans for a national campaign focusing on citizen education, value reorientation, promoting made-in-Nigeria goods, and service delivery excellence, with collaboration from the ministry.
Tourism as a Foreign Exchange Earner for Nigeria
Nigeria will host the first United Nations World Tourism Organisation Global Conference on Tourism, Culture, and the Creative Industry in Lagos from November 14 to 16. This event is expected to boost Nigeria's tourism industry, which has significant potential for foreign exchange earnings. Despite a low ranking in the World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism competitiveness report, Nigeria's diverse tourist attractions, such as the Yankari Game Reserve and Olumo Rock, offer substantial opportunities. The tourism sector's growth could rival current earnings from crude oil, provided there is improved infrastructure, security, and investment. The World Travel & Tourism Council forecasts the creation of 2.6 million new jobs in Nigeria's tourism sector over the next decade.
Information Minister tasks Nigerians to build strength in diversity
Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, encouraged Nigerians to view the country's cultural diversity as a strength in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's 8-Point Agenda to tackle socio-economic issues. During visits to former heads of state, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, the message of using diversity for prosperity was echoed. Nigeria's cultural diversity and resources are seen as key to progress. General Abubakar urged patience and support for the government's efforts to address economic, fuel subsidy, and security challenges. The Niger State Government held a reception to honor political figures, where the Minister called for state support in reorienting Nigerians for development, and Governor Mohammed Umar Bago pledged to ensure state cooperation in distributing government palliatives.
GIANTS STRIDES IN NIGERIA’S TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY AND BUILDING ON SUCCESSES RECORDED
Nigeria's technology industry has seen significant growth since the country's return to democracy in 1999, marked by a sharp increase in telephone and internet penetration. The liberalization of the telecom sector, beginning with the National Telecommunications Policy in 2000, paved the way for private firms like MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile to enter the market. The launch of 5G technology in Lagos last year further underscores this progress. The tech revolution has also spurred the rise of fintech companies like Flutterwave and Paystack, enhancing financial inclusion and attracting global investors. Despite these successes, challenges remain, such as low broadband penetration, presenting opportunities for further investment and growth under the new administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Africa Holds Opportunities For Global Tourism – Vice President
Nigeria's Vice President highlighted Africa's potential in the global tourism and creative industry at the UN World Tourism Organisation Conference in Lagos. He cited the success of the 'Black Panther' movies as evidence of African creativity's global appeal. The conference, themed 'Linking Tourism, Culture and Creative Industries: Pathway to Recovery and Inclusive Development', aims to explore ways to facilitate cross-border movement and capitalize on tourism as a major global export sector. The UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the unique mix of conference participants, including chefs, designers, and financial sector representatives.
Major Reforms in Nigeria’s Telecommunication Sector Since Independence
Telecommunication facilities in Nigeria were first established in 1886 by the colonial administration. Significant reforms began in 1992 with the establishment of the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) under General Ibrahim Babangida's military regime. The return to democratic rule in 1999 marked a groundbreaking period for telecom reforms, leading to the liberalization of the sector and the entry of private players like MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile. The introduction of GSM technology in 2001 and the recent launch of 5G technology have significantly boosted telephone penetration and internet usage, creating jobs and enhancing communication in Nigeria.
Concern over Nigerian students who get fake degrees in Benin
Concerns are growing over the proliferation of low-quality or fake universities in Benin, attracting Nigerian students due to a shortage of higher education places in Nigeria. The National Universities Commission (NUC) has warned about these institutions, some of which award degrees in less than a year. The NUC and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) are taking steps to block graduates with unreliable qualifications from participating in mandatory development programs. Several Benin-based universities have been delisted by the NYSC for awarding degrees within a few months. Despite these issues, some Nigerian students have had positive experiences studying in Benin. The demand for higher education in Nigeria, coupled with disruptions in academic calendars and lower tuition costs in Benin, continues to drive students to seek education abroad.
Nigerians Continue #BringBackOurGirls Campaign Amid New Kidnappings, Violence (Updated)
The Bring Back Our Girls movement in Nigeria continues its efforts to free girls kidnapped by Boko Haram, despite new abductions and ongoing violence. The recent kidnapping of over 100 schoolgirls in Dapchi has reignited concerns about the government's effectiveness in addressing the crisis. Amnesty International has criticized security lapses, while activists argue that the current administration has not learned from past incidents. Aid workers face high risks, with recent attacks leading to the suspension of operations by several organizations. Calls for a new approach to end the conflict emphasize the need for negotiation and a cessation of hostilities.
Nigerian Activists Continue Push to #BringBackOurGirls Amid Increasing Boko Haram Violence
Local activists in Nigeria continue to demand the release of over 100 girls still held by Boko Haram, despite some successes in freeing kidnapped schoolgirls. The #BringBackOurGirls movement, which gained international attention, persists with sit-ins and meetings across Nigeria, emphasizing the need for the girls' social and psychological recovery. Boko Haram's violence has escalated, with a significant increase in civilian deaths and the use of young girls as suicide bombers. Amnesty International and UNICEF have reported on the severity of the situation, while the Nigerian military has conducted operations against Boko Haram strongholds.
Nigerian Troops Rescue Pregnant Girls From Boko Haram's Stronghold
Nigerian troops have rescued hundreds of women and girls from Boko Haram's stronghold in the Sambisa Forest, with about 200 of them visibly pregnant. The National Emergency Management Agency and UNFPA are providing trauma counseling and medical care, including antenatal and cesarean sections when necessary. The rescue operation has raised hopes for the return of the Chibok girls, though the military advises caution against such expectations.
Video of a concert aimed at encouraging Nigerians to vote, even after the election postponement. Originally scheduled for Feb. 14, the government postponed the elections until March 28, citing fears of violence from Boko Haram. But the opposition party thinks the delay is only because the ruling party fears it will lose. Video/rushes shot for Aljazeera Plus.
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