FCCPC seeks stronger media collaboration on consumer protection

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has called for stronger collaboration with journalists covering competition and consumer protection issues in Nigeria. FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and CEO Tunji Bello made the call during a meeting with officials of the Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN) at the commission's headquarters in Abuja.

Bello emphasized the need for journalists to have specialized knowledge to report on competition and consumer protection matters effectively. He noted that competition law and consumer protection regulation are relatively new in Nigeria, making stakeholder education a priority for the commission. This recognition of competition reporting as a new beat in Nigeria highlights the critical role that journalists play in raising awareness about these important issues.

Bello also highlighted the FCCPC's recent support for a training program for judges through the National Judicial Institute to deepen their understanding of competition-related matters. He acknowledged that adequate public awareness of the FCCPC was still lacking, attributing this to the lack of consistent media coverage. The commission's commitment to supporting stakeholders is further demonstrated by its funding of major aspects of its operations from internally generated revenue.

CICAN Chairman Gabriel Kuma echoed Bello's sentiments, reaffirming the association's commitment to constructive journalism and stronger engagement with regulatory institutions. Kuma emphasized the importance of a professional relationship between regulators and the media, built on openness, accountability, and access to accurate information.

CICAN will mark its 20th anniversary with a national dialogue on Nigeria's $1 trillion economy agenda, highlighting the crucial role of policymakers, regulators, investors, industry leaders, and the media in its actualization.