Prof Okocha Becomes ICA Nigeria Chair as Details Emerge
- Professor Desmond Okocha succeeds Dr Ekaete George as chairperson of ICA Nigeria at Abuja conference
- Two-day conference discusses global communication trends impacting Africa, focusing on AI and climate change
- New leadership aims to expand ICA Nigeria's membership and influence within academic and professional circles
The Nigerian chapter of the International Communication Association (ICA) has entered a new leadership phase following the emergence of Professor Desmond Onyemechi Okocha as chairperson at its maiden national conference held in Abuja.
The development marks a transition from the pioneer chair, Dr Ekaete George, to Okocha, who previously served as vice-chair, in what observers describe as a move that ensures continuity for the fast-growing association established in 2023.
Source: Original
Conference focuses on global communication trends
The two-day conference, held from 24 to 25 March 2026 at Nile University, Abuja, brought together scholars and communication professionals under the theme, “Global Communication Shifts and Implications for Africa.”
Discussions at the event covered key areas such as artificial intelligence, climate change and crisis communication, reflecting evolving trends shaping the communication landscape.
The conference was attended by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, who was represented by the Director-General of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali Muhammed Ali. Also present was the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Press Council, Dr Dili Ezughah, among other stakeholders.
New chair outlines vision for expansion
In his acceptance speech, Prof Okocha, a professor of Journalism and Emerging Media and Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies at Bingham University, Karu, unveiled members of his team and outlined plans to expand the association’s reach.
He said the new leadership would prioritise a membership drive targeting universities and industry practitioners, with the aim of strengthening ICA Nigeria’s presence across academic and professional spaces.
Okocha begins a one-year renewable term as chair.
Outgoing chair highlights achievements
In her valedictory remarks, Dr George reflected on the association’s progress since its establishment, citing increased membership, the introduction of 13 quarterly seminar series and improved collaboration at both national and international levels.
She urged members to sustain the momentum and build on the foundation already laid.
ICA’s global role and Africa expansion
The International Communication Association, founded in 1950, has grown into a global network of communication scholars spanning more than 80 countries.
In recent years, the body has intensified its engagement beyond North America and Europe, with a particular focus on Africa as part of its internationalisation agenda.
The establishment of national chapters, including ICA Nigeria, reflects efforts to promote diverse perspectives in communication research while addressing region-specific challenges such as media credibility, digital transformation and development communication.
Chapter positioned for greater influence
Observers say the leadership transition comes at a critical time as ICA Nigeria seeks to consolidate its achievements and expand its influence in both academic and policy circles.
The Abuja conference, seen as both an intellectual gathering and an institutional milestone, is expected to further position the Nigerian chapter as a growing platform for African contributions to global communication scholarship.
Source: Legit.ng
