The Lagos Digital Public Relations Summit has unveiled an impressive roster of keynote speakers and faculty members for its highly anticipated 9th edition, themed “Nurturing Authentic Connections in Digital Ecosystems.” Scheduled for October 16th and 17th, 2024, the event will take place at the prestigious MUSON Center, Onikan, Lagos, offering a comprehensive exploration of the evolving role of digital communication in today’s fast-paced, AI-driven world.
This year’s Summit seeks to position Nigeria as a leader in digital public relations by examining the transformative role of artificial intelligence while reaffirming the indispensable value of human connections. The event is supported by notable institutions, including the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Digital and New Media, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Lagos State on New Media, alongside major media and technology firms, as well as global digital marketing communications agencies.
The faculty for this year’s Summit comprises a diverse and distinguished group of experts in brand management, corporate communications, and marketing. Their vast experience, combined with deep expertise in utilizing digital platforms for brand storytelling and reputation management, positions them as thought leaders who will drive forward critical conversations about the future of public relations.
Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General/CEO of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), will deliver the keynote address, setting the tone for the high-level discussions. Distinguished guests expected to attend include O’tega Ogra, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Digital Communications, Engagement, and New Media Strategy, and Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Among the faculty members are industry heavyweights such as Lanre Adelanwa Basamta, Co-founder/CEO of Optimus AI Lab; Adetokunbo Modupe, Managing Partner at TPT International; Dotun Babatunde, Head of Digital Marketing at Olam Nigeria; Ifeoluwa Esther Obafemi, Head of Digital Media and Insight for Sub-Saharan Africa at FrieslandCampina; Damilola Dawson, Director of Content at Pulse Nigeria; and Monday Michaels Ashibogwu, Founder/CEO of The Republic Media Limited.
Other prominent speakers include Cassandra Uzo-Ogbugh, Head of Media for Sub-Saharan Africa at Reckitt; Olayinka Ijabiyi, Head of Brand and Stakeholder Management at FirstBank of Nigeria; Mabel Adeleye, Brand and Marketing Communications at Wema Bank; Celestine Achi, CEO of Cihan Media Group; Sandra Amachree, Global Senior Brand Manager at The Heineken Company; Tokunboh George-Taylor, Managing Director of Skot Communications; Rafiat Gawat, Head of Corporate Communications at TGI Group; and David Afolayan, Co-founder and Content Chief at Technext.
Government representatives include Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, Commissioner for Communications in Kwara State, and Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications in Kogi State. Joining them are Bola Atta, Managing Director of UBA Foundation, and Oyinade Adegite (Ogunade), Chief Communications Officer at GTCO Plc.
This year’s Summit promises a rich blend of activities, including keynote speeches, masterclasses, and a tech showcase that will draw a wide spectrum of attendees, from PR and communications professionals to marketing experts, business leaders, content creators, and students. A major highlight is the unveiling of the third edition of the Digital PR Digest, the Summit’s official magazine, which will feature cutting-edge insights, compelling stories, and practical guides on navigating the rapidly evolving digital PR landscape.
In a statement, Comfort Obot Nwankwo, co-convener and Chairman of Lagos NIPR, expressed her enthusiasm: “The 9th Lagos Digital PR Summit reaffirms our commitment to shaping the future of public relations in the digital age. Our exceptional faculty brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, and this year’s theme—focusing on the human element of communication amid the rise of AI—couldn’t be more timely.”
Segun McMedal, President of Upticomm Marketing Company and Convener of the Summit, highlighted the importance of the event: “The Lagos Digital PR Summit continues to serve as a pivotal platform for professionals to gain the tools necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital environment. This year’s faculty lineup will provide invaluable insights on balancing AI innovations with the essential human touch in communication, helping participants foster trust and authenticity in their brand narratives.”
As digital ecosystems continue to evolve, this year’s Summit promises to be an essential forum for exploring the dynamic intersection of AI and human-driven communications, equipping participants with the skills and strategies needed to succeed in the future of public relations.
