NSACC Marks 25yrs, Spotlights Media’s Role In Boosting Nigeria-South Africa Ties

The Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce (NSACC) will be commemorating its 25th anniversary through a series of activities announced during its recent breakfast meeting.

With the theme, “Media as a Bridge: Strengthening Nigeria-South Africa Ties through the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MIP)”, the session brought together business leaders, academics, and media professionals to examine how journalism can build closer ties between the two nations.

Tobe Okigbo, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Nigeria, said the MIP was created to tackle misinformation and stereotypes in reporting. He described the programme as a diplomatic tool. He pointed to its study tour in South Africa, which gives Nigerian journalists first-hand exposure to the country. “If Nigeria and South Africa can get their act together, the rest of the continent will follow,” he said, noting that MTN is exploring ways to expand the programme across Africa.

Dr. Ije Jidenma, Chairperson of the NSACC, commended the Media Innovation Programme (MIP) as a clear example of ideas put into action. She described the media as a “catalyst for development,” highlighting its influence on public debate. She added that the media plays a key role in fostering partnerships between nations, especially as the Chamber marks its 25th anniversary.

Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, Dean of the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University, emphasised the importance of training journalists to report with accuracy and context. He commended the partnership between academia and industry.

According to him, the MIP helps participants develop the skills to tell balanced stories and manage ethical issues. “The media will not achieve this if practitioners are not well-formed and adequately exposed to the realities they report on,” he said.

The event also featured a panel session where MIP fellows shared first-hand experiences from the programme and how it reshaped their perception of South Africa. Panellists included Amarachi Ubani (Channels TV), Oluwadunsin Sanya (BellaNaija), Nifemi Oguntoye (TVC News), and Akinkunmi Obakeye (CNBC Africa). They spoke about moving beyond stereotypes to more balanced views. Through direct engagement with colleagues across borders, they discovered shared values and stronger connections.

The event ended with the unveiling of NSACC’s anniversary logo, as part of the commemoration of 25 years of the chamber. This marks a symbolic step towards a new phase of growth for the NSACC and greater access to opportunities for its members.