Three former African presidents have praised Akwa Ibom State’s peaceful environment and growing investment opportunities following the unveiling of the C54 News Global Streaming Dome in Uyo, the state capital.
Former Nigerian Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, alongside former Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi, made the remarks during the launch of the international media facility.
The event brought together political leaders, business executives, diplomats and media professionals to discuss Africa’s representation in global journalism and the opportunities emerging in Akwa Ibom State.
Obasanjo Calls for Stronger African Representation in Global Media
Speaking at the event, former President Olusegun Obasanjo welcomed the establishment of C54 News, describing it as an important development for African journalism.
He expressed concern that African stories have often been presented to international audiences without sufficient input from people living on the continent.
Obasanjo believes the new platform could help address this gap by providing reliable news, documentaries and information reflecting African experiences.
He also highlighted the importance of credible information and accurate data in shaping policies and supporting economic development.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan equally welcomed the initiative, noting that the media organisation could improve how Africa communicates its achievements and opportunities to the rest of the world.
Jonathan encouraged African journalists and media institutions to give greater attention to the continent’s innovations, cultural heritage, business potential and natural resources.
Masisi Advocates Credible Journalism and African Unity
Former Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi, who delivered the keynote address, described the launch as a significant opportunity for Africa to strengthen its presence in international media.
He stressed that African countries must become active participants in shaping global conversations rather than relying entirely on outside organisations to communicate their experiences.
Masisi also emphasised the need for accurate reporting, editorial independence and fairness, identifying these principles as essential to building public confidence in C54 News.
He encouraged cooperation among African countries, investment in local media talent and greater commitment to sharing information that supports regional development.
Governor Umo Eno Positions Akwa Ibom as Investment Destination
Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno welcomed the establishment of C54 News in Uyo, describing the project as another indication of the state’s attractiveness to investors.
Represented by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Eno assured the organisation of his administration’s support.
He identified peace, security, hospitality and available human resources as some of the factors making Akwa Ibom suitable for businesses and international institutions.
The governor explained that his administration was investing in infrastructure, transportation connectivity and tourism development to strengthen the state’s economy.
Drawing comparisons with international broadcasters such as CNN in Atlanta and Al Jazeera in Doha, Eno expressed confidence that the presence of a global media organisation could improve Uyo’s visibility internationally.
He further encouraged investors in media, technology, tourism and other sectors to consider the opportunities available in the state.
C54 News Aims to Connect All 54 African Countries
C54 News Founder and Chief Executive Officer Idris Usman explained that the platform was established to strengthen connections among African nations through journalism, documentaries, cultural programmes and information sharing.
According to Usman, the initiative seeks to create a stronger international presence for African stories while highlighting the continent’s industries, markets and investment opportunities.
The organisation operates as a 24-hour global streaming platform, with its headquarters located in Uyo.
Its Global Streaming Dome is expected to serve as a centre for media production and the distribution of content about Africa to international audiences.
Pat Utomi, South African Diplomat Welcome Initiative
Professor Pat Utomi, founder of the Centre for Values in Leadership, also attended the event as chairman of the occasion.
Utomi emphasised the need for African-owned media institutions capable of presenting the continent’s perspectives to audiences around the world.
South Africa’s Consul-General to Nigeria, Professor Bobby Moroe, similarly welcomed the project, describing it as an opportunity to improve cooperation between African countries.
The inauguration attracted lawmakers, traditional rulers, government representatives, members of the diplomatic community and business leaders.
With C54 News establishing its headquarters in Uyo, the development is expected to strengthen Akwa Ibom’s profile as a destination for media investment, technology partnerships and international business engagement.
Emmanuel Bassey is a Financial Expert that has worked in the Banking and Finance Industry for over 15+ years across different banks in Nigeria
