Professor Desmond Okocha, the newly appointed Chair of the International Communication Association (ICA) Nigeria Chapter, has set a bold target to expand the association's presence in Nigerian universities.
Okocha made this announcement at the chapter's inaugural National Conference, which took place at Nile University of Nigeria from March 24 to 25, 2026. The ambitious agenda aims to establish ICA presence in at least 100 universities across the country by the end of his tenure.
Okocha, a professor of communication, emphasized the importance of strengthening the association's ties with Nigerian institutions to drive global communication shift. He believes that this expansion will not only enhance the quality of research and education in the field but also position Nigeria as a key player in the global communication landscape.
The conference brought together experts and scholars from various universities to discuss the future of communication and its impact on society. The event provided a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and networking among participants.
The ICA Nigeria Chapter's ambitious target is a testament to the growing interest in communication studies in Nigeria. With this expansion, the association aims to promote excellence in communication research, education, and practice, ultimately contributing to the country's economic and social development.
The next step for the ICA Nigeria Chapter is to implement its ambitious agenda, which will involve engaging with university administrators, academics, and students to promote the association's goals and objectives.
Professor Okocha's statement that ICA's expansion will drive a global communication shift implies that Nigeria is poised to take a leading role in shaping the future of communication. When he says that strengthening ties with Nigerian institutions will enhance the quality of research and education, that means Nigeria's academic community is about to experience a significant boost in international recognition and collaboration. This development has significant implications for the country's economic and social progress, as a strong communication sector can drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange.