By Dahiru Kasimu Adamu
The Department of Mass Communication at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), is finalising preparations to host its maiden international conference, a landmark event slated to hold from June 7 to June 10, 2026.
With the theme “Media and National Development in the Era of Artificial Intelligence,” the four-day gathering promises to bring together scholars, media practitioners, and policymakers from across Nigeria and beyond.
According to a statement issued by Dr Danladi Bako, Chairman of the Conference Organising Committee, a distinguished personality will chair the event: Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, former President of the United Nations General Assembly.
Dr Bako further explained that the conference will kick off on June 7 with a pre‑conference lecture to be delivered by Prof. Fatma El‑Sayed of Cairo University, Egypt, at 1:00 p.m.
The main conference will be officially declared open on June 8 at the university auditorium by the Chief Host and Vice‑Chancellor of UDUS, Prof. Bashir Garba.
Expressing the university’s readiness to welcome the international academic community, Prof. Garba said: “We are fully prepared to welcome the international academic community.”
The opening ceremony will also be graced by the Pro‑Chancellor and Chairman of the University Governing Council, Professor Attahiru Jega, alongside other members of the Governing Council.
The highlight of the conference will be the keynote lecture delivered by Professor Kehbuma Langmia, a double Fulbright Scholar from Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA.
The conference will critically examine the role of the media and its intersection with artificial intelligence in an increasingly digital world. Some of the sub-themes include: AI & Media Policy, AI for Security & Information Disorder, AI in Rural Communities, AI in Political Communication & Good Governance, AI & National Security, AI & Investigative Journalism, and more.
Dr Bako’s statement noted: “The conference theme, ‘Media and National Development in the Era of Artificial Intelligence,’ will provide a platform for robust intellectual discussions among lead paper presenters, panellists, academics from various universities, and other stakeholders across Nigeria.”
In a significant academic milestone, the Department of Mass Communication will also unveil the maiden edition of its academic journal, Alkalami: Journal of Communication.
Journalists, media practitioners, public relations and information officers, content creators, and Mass Communication/Journalism students are strongly encouraged to attend and actively participate in this upcoming event.
“The four‑day conference promises to be memorable and rewarding for participants, visitors, and the academic community at large,” Dr Bako assured.
He added that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the event’s success.
The Department of Mass Communication at UDUS was established in 2019 with a focus on producing media and communication graduates who can contribute their quota to the media and communication industry nationwide.