Nduka Obaigbena, founding Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY Media Group and ARISE News Channel, has announced plans to launch a new digital platform, Lekeelekee, aimed at challenging the dominance of the United States and China in global media distribution.

Obaigbena made the announcement during a speech at the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference in Abuja, addressing over 500 editors, policymakers, and diplomats at the State House Conference Hall. He urged media practitioners to defend democracy, adapt to artificial intelligence, and reclaim Africa’s voice in the global information ecosystem.

Scheduled to launch in January 2026, Lekeelekee is envisioned as a homegrown multimedia hub that allows African creators, editors, and broadcasters to distribute and monetize their content independently of Western or Chinese digital giants. Obaigbena said: “We have a responsibility to build our own technology and algorithms to determine how our content is earned and shared.”

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Obaigbena recalled the execution of journalist Ken Saro-Wiwa 30 years ago under military rule, emphasizing the importance of press freedom today. He also highlighted the historical influence of Nigerian media figures, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Bola Tinubu, on politics and nation-building.

Addressing technological shifts, Obaigbena warned that Africa risks becoming “a passive spectator” in a media landscape dominated by a few global powers. He highlighted the rise of AI as transforming journalism production, distribution, and monetization, stressing the need for African innovation in the sector.

The conference, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,” was attended by President Bola Tinubu, governors from Plateau, Zamfara, Nasarawa, and Kano states, as well as veteran journalists including Chief Segun Osoba, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, and Femi Adesina.

Obaigbena also cautioned against external disruptions or sanctions that could destabilize Nigeria’s economy, urging editors and leaders to build coalitions to combat insecurity, poverty, and misinformation through dialogue and national collaboration.