Concerned about telling our Nigerian stories ourselves without the influence of foreign intervention or narrative.
A new movement called Pivot Nigeria is rising to reclaim Nigeria’s narrative – one story, one voice, and one vision at a time. The conference with a theme “Reframing the Lens,” held at La Scala, MUSON Centre, Lagos.
Media leaders, development experts, and young storytellers converged to spark a national rethink on how Nigerians tell their own stories to the world.
Convener Victoria Uwadoka, Chief Executive Officer of HighStakes PR Professionals, set the tone for a national storytelling revolution that places truth, pride, and responsibility at the heart of communication. “This is more than a conference – it’s a clarion call,” Uwadoka declared. “We must rewrite the script about Nigeria with integrity, innovation, and a shared commitment to our national image.”
She added that Pivot Nigeria, the host initiative, is a pan-Nigerian thought-leadership platform designed to promote ethical communication, strengthen the national brand, and create a global space for authentic African storytelling.
Uwadoka maintained that Pivot Nigeria is more than a conference -it’s a movement of voices determined to reimagine Nigeria through responsible storytelling, digital inclusion, and sustainable impact. By merging creativity, integrity, and collaboration, it continues to build a platform where Nigerians can shape the stories that shape the nation.
Among the distinguished speakers were Ambassadors Isaac and Nneka Moses (Goge Africa), Dr. Nkechi Ali-Balogun, Emeka Mba, Jamal Robert Siakpere, Temitope Aina, Nneamaka Nwadei, Rosemary Egabor-Afolahan, and Richmond Ogolo.
Dr. Nkechi Ali-Balogun, a respected communications consultant, challenged Nigerians to consciously build a culture of credibility in storytelling. “Our reputation is shaped by what we allow others to say. Let us tell our stories ourselves – accurately, boldly, and consistently,” she noted.
Emeka Mba, Chief Executive Officer of Afia TV and former DG of the Nigeria Broadcasting, Commission emphasised the role of ownership and innovation. “If we don’t control the channels of our narratives, others will define us,” he said.
Ambassadors Isaac and Nneka Moses inspired participants to embrace cultural pride through language, fashion, and creative tourism at fire- side conversation
“Africa’s story is rich- our culture is power. Nigerians everywhere must project the beauty of our identity,” Nneka stated, while Isaac urged responsible media practices and national unity.
The conference’s high-energy panel session, moderated by award-winning filmmaker and journalist, Nina Anyianuka, brought together vibrant voices in communication and sustainability to discuss “Balancing the Narrative Responsibly.”
Panelists Temitope Aina, emphasized collaboration and mentorship, urging young creators to use their platforms responsibly to inspire, not divide, while Nneamaka Nwadei highlighted the power of women and youth in reframing Nigeria’s story, noting that diverse voices make our narrative richer and more inclusive.
The youth engagement sessions, coordinated by Obalooluwa Dairo, sustainability professional, and Victor Boyle Komolafe, public relations strategist, saw participants divided into groups to brainstorm solutions for the National Storytelling Frameworks. Their presentations focused on innovation, environmental awareness, and ethical content creation.
The. youth representatives from UNILAG, LASU, and Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) shared practical insights on how storytelling can shape national identity and foster social impact.
A student of European Languages at UNILAG, Temidayo Obadare pledged to apply the Pivot Nigeria Blueprint to amplify authentic national stories. Similarly, Afogunlowo Adekunle Imoren, a communications student, stressed the importance of fact-checking and responsible media practice: “Before we post, we must verify – because every story we tell about Nigeria shapes how the world sees us.”
Digital strategist, Jamal -Robert Siakpere, pushed for the integration of technology and cultural intelligence in storytelling. “Digital ecosystems create new spaces for authentic African voices. When we use these tools wisely, we build communities and connect hearts across borders,” he said.
Lawyer, curator, and anthropologist, Richmond Ogolo, charged the youth to believe in Nigeria’s potential. “There is no place like Nigeria -our story is our strength. Stay here, build here, and make the difference,” he urged.
Development and Communications Consultant, Phranklin Audu closed the event with a heartfelt vote of thanks, commending the Pivot Nigeria team, sponsors, and Lois Nweke, the Master of Ceremony, for her elegance and professionalism. “Pivot Nigeria has shown that change begins with how we speak about ourselves. It’s time for every Nigerian to become an ambassador of truth and hope,” he said
