Tijjani Muhammad Bande, the former UN General Assembly president, will lead a historic conference at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto. The four-day event kicks off June 7.
It's the first international gathering hosted by the university's Mass Communication department. Organizers say it'll explore media's role in national development during the artificial intelligence era.
Danladi Bako, who heads the organizing committee, made the announcement in Sokoto this week. He noted that academics, journalists, and stakeholders will converge for in-depth discussions.
A pre-conference lecture launches proceedings on Sunday, June 7. Fatma El-Sayed from Cairo University will deliver the opening address.
The formal ceremony happens Monday, June 8 at the university auditorium. Officials confirmed the Vice Chancellor will welcome guests from Nigeria and abroad.
Pro-Chancellor Attahiru Jega and Governing Council members are expected to attend. Their presence underscores institutional support for the gathering.
Kehbuma Langmia, a double Fulbright scholar based at Howard University in Washington, will give the keynote speech. Langmia's expertise in media studies makes him a key draw for participants.
The program includes lead papers, panel sessions, and scholarly debates. Participants represent universities across Nigeria and several other countries.
A major milestone awaits during the conference. ALKALAMI Journal of Communication and Media Studies will launch its inaugural edition.
Organizers are confident the platform will spark meaningful conversations. They believe it'll address how media can shape national progress amid rapid technological change.
