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The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has confirmed his participation in the upcoming launch of a book by Dayo Oketola, the immediate past Editor of The PUNCH. The book, titled The Catalyst: Nigerian Tech Evolution Through a Journalist’s Lens, will be unveiled on September 17, 2024, during an exaugural lecture to mark Oketola’s departure as editor and celebrate his nearly two decades in journalism.
Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, Head of Media Relations at the NCC, expressed the Commission’s support for Oketola’s work, saying, “It is a consequential work. Congratulations.”
Prominent industry figures, including the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, and MainOne CEO, Ms. Funke Opeke, have also voiced their backing for the event. In a letter of support, MainOne stated, “Congratulations on reaching this significant milestone.”
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, who initiated the GSM revolution in 2001, will serve as the Special Guest Speaker at the event. Oketola’s book highlights how the introduction of GSM under Obasanjo’s leadership spurred over $70 billion in investments and created more than 500,000 jobs.
Reflecting on his career, Oketola said, “My 20 remarkable years of stewardship to the nation via media and leadership practices have driven advocacy and impacted areas such as business, ICT, energy, and nation-building.”
Other notable figures set to attend the event include Michael Ikpoki, former CEO of MTN Nigeria, who will chair the occasion, and Dr. Akin Olaniyan, who will review the book. The Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, will attend as Chief Host, alongside PUNCH Managing Director, Mr. Adeyeye Joseph, and Nigerian Guild of Editors President, Mr. Eze Anaba.
