The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, led by Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Tunji Bello, has indicated readiness in Abuja, Nigeria, to support FCCPC Journalist Training Nigeria initiatives aimed at strengthening media understanding of competition law and consumer rights.
Tunji Bello, represented by Executive Commissioner for Operations Louis Odion, gave the indication during a visit by newly elected executives of the Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria to the commission’s headquarters.
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He acknowledged that competition reporting remains relatively new in Nigeria, noting that both the legal framework and public awareness around consumer protection are still evolving.
As a result, he said, stakeholder education remains a critical part of the commission’s mandate.
“The request will receive due consideration and be followed up appropriately,” Louis Odion said, conveying the commission’s position on proposals for structured journalist training and closer engagement with the media.
The proposed FCCPC Journalist Training Nigeria initiative is expected to enhance journalists’ capacity to report accurately on issues such as fair market practices, regulatory enforcement and consumer rights protections.
Bello also referenced a recent collaboration with the National Judicial Institute, where the commission supported training programmes for judges to deepen their understanding of competition law and related cases.
He commended the media for increasing public awareness of the commission’s activities, noting that its statements frequently receive prominent coverage.
According to him, the commission’s growing visibility is largely driven by consistent media engagement.
Earlier, CICAN Abuja Chairman Gabriel Kuma emphasised the association’s commitment to constructive journalism and professional collaboration with regulatory bodies.
“We are open to constructive reporting that holds institutions accountable,” Gabriel Kuma said, adding that the association aims to strengthen transparency while supporting public understanding of regulatory developments.
Kuma noted that the media could play a pivotal role in communicating complex policy issues, particularly in areas such as consumer protection and fair competition, which directly affect businesses and citizens.
Beyond the engagement with the FCCPC, CICAN is also preparing to mark its 20th anniversary with a national dialogue focused on Nigeria’s economic ambitions.
The event, scheduled for October 20, 2026, in Abuja, will examine the Federal Government’s $1 trillion economy agenda under the theme, “FG’s $1 Trillion Economy: Role of Policy Makers, Stakeholders and Media in Its Actualisation.”
Industry observers say initiatives such as the proposed FCCPC Journalist Training Nigeria programme could significantly improve the quality of economic and regulatory reporting, especially as Nigeria’s market environment becomes more complex.
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As discussions progress, the collaboration between the FCCPC and the media is expected to deepen, reinforcing the role of journalism in promoting transparency, accountability and consumer protection.
