Dr Mkpe Abang Advocates for Stronger African Media Institutions

During a diplomatic meeting in Abuja, Dr Mkpe Abang, Founder and Chief Executive of Media Diplomacy Studies, and Philda Kereng, High Commissioner of the Republic of Botswana to Nigeria, discussed the need for African governments to invest in state media institutions, professional expertise, and technology. The meeting emphasized the importance of Africa taking responsibility for its own narratives to counter distorted external representations.

Kereng highlighted the necessity of public policy, institutional investment, and technological capacity-building to enhance the effectiveness of African state media in international diplomacy. Abang stated that credible state media could project national images and influence international perceptions when supported by strong institutions.

The meeting also addressed the upcoming national presentation of Abang's book, "Weapons of Mass Manipulation: State Media, Global Influence and the New Diplomacy of Power," and the inauguration of the Annual Diplomacy Day, both scheduled for 20 November 2026 at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja. An autographed copy of the book was presented to Kereng during the meeting.