Freedom Online 5th lecture: Uzodimma, Diri, Gbenga Daniel, others confirm attendance

The fifth yearly lecture of Freedom Online, one of Nigeria's fastest-growing online newspapers, will be held on Tuesday, July 18 in Lagos.

A statement by the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, Gabriel Akinadewo, says "all invited guests have confirmed attendance".

The former governor of Ogun State, Senator Gbenga Daniel, is the Chairman.

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State is the Special Guest speaker, while Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State is the Special Keynote Speaker.

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, is the Special Guest of Honour.

The theme of the lecture is 2023–2027: Nigerians, elected leaders, and expectations'.

Also expected are former Police Affairs Minister, Navy Captain Omoniyi Olubolade (rtd); former Managing Director of the Daily Times, Chief Tola Adeniyi; and others.

While the venue is the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, the President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Mr. Eze Anaba, and the President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), Maureen Chigbo, are the Chief Hosts.

According to Akinadewo, the lecture is an annual event “that brings together captains of industry, media chiefs, politicians, and professionals to reflect on national issues and propose an objective course of action. We have always been forthright on matters of Nigeria’s progress and future.

“Since the first edition of our annual lecture, we have been inspired by the commitment of our guests and Nigerians in the quest for a better country through advocacy. We believe this time around, the same zeal will be deployed to ensure that Nigeria takes its rightful place in the community of nations.

“Since the 'change of guard' at the federal level and in some states on May 29, Nigerians have been yearning for a positive change. Various speakers will use the platform to ventilate their plans for the people, from federal to state and council levels”.