Obaigbena Unveils Lekeleke, a New African Social Media Platform to Break Global Digital Monopoly
Influential media mogul and founder of ARISE News Channel and THISDAY Newspapers, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, has unveiled plans to launch Lekeleke, a new African-owned social media platform designed to redefine digital engagement and challenge the dominance of global tech giants.
Obaigbena made the announcement on Wednesday at the 2025 All Nigeria Editors Conference in Abuja, an event marking 30 years since the execution of environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, a moment he described as pivotal in Nigeria’s democratic history.
Linking Democracy, Media, and National Progress
Reflecting on the evolution of Nigeria’s political and media landscape, Obaigbena drew parallels between past visionary leaders who transitioned from journalism to national governance, including Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“There are three leaders who were media owners who had the fortunes of leading Nigeria,” he noted. “Having a media owner as Head of State shows how far we’ve come. It means we must engage, we must discuss, and we must understand ourselves.”
He stressed that sustaining Nigeria’s democracy requires both active engagement and responsible communication from media professionals.
Editors Urged to Safeguard National Stability
Obaigbena called on editors to continue playing a stabilising role as Nigeria navigates tough but necessary economic reforms.
“We are at a crossroad of reforms,” he warned. “We now stand on the gates of stability. We must protect that stability because losing it means losing the sacrifices of the last two years.”
He cautioned that any major external shock, such as a potential U.S. sanction, could reverse recent gains, destabilise the economy, and undermine ongoing reforms. Editors, he said, must help build a “coalition of the willing” to combat insecurity, terrorism, and poverty.
“Africa Cannot Remain a Passive Consumer in the Digital Economy”
Against the backdrop of AI disruption, Obaigbena highlighted the structural imbalance in today’s information ecosystem, where content distribution is largely controlled by the U.S. and China.
“We are in the age of Artificial Intelligence,” he said. “Algorithms are changing how journalism is run. Distribution of content on social media is controlled principally by the U.S. and, to an extent, by China. What are we doing about it?”
In response to this global digital power imbalance, Obaigbena announced the launch of Lekeleke, set for January 2026.
“We have launched our own social media channel called Lekeleke, and it will shape the future and challenge the dominance of the U.S. and China.”
He emphasised that Africa must transition from a consumer to a creator in the global technology ecosystem, building its own algorithms and platforms capable of influencing how content is distributed and monetised.
A Call for Unity, Democracy, and Free Speech
Obaigbena concluded his address with a passionate call for national unity and the protection of free speech. “As we gather here today, we should celebrate democracy. We should celebrate Nigeria. And we should work together for the sake of our nation.”
He urged editors and citizens alike to defend democratic values and champion platforms, like Lekeleke, that embody Africa’s digital independence. “So, as we celebrate free speech and Nigeria, I want all of us to give a round of applause to Nigeria,” he said.
