Communicating government and government policies has been a major challenge of democratic governance in Africa. This is a paradox, especially because democracy thrives on a strong, healthy, and sustained relationship between elected representatives and the electorate. Effective communication is the process through which this could be enhanced.

A critical study of the last eight years of democratic governance in Africa indicated that those who were appointed to project government policies and public image more often created perception problems for their principals. An otherwise popular government becomes very unpopular within a short period, not necessarily because of the incompetence of the appointees, but more likely because of a misunderstanding of roles.

For example, most Press Secretaries were appointed from the mass media, and more often, have had very illustrious careers as editors. However, a reporter’s orientation can help only to some degree. The newsroom culture differs significantly from the demands of public office. Indeed, experience has shown that Press Secretaries who were appointed from journalism practice tend to fall out with their colleagues shortly after. Some out of taking their constituency for granted. Others may be due to an inadequate understanding of the very complex demands of their office.

In any case, the solo culture of a reporter contrasts markedly with the leadership and teamwork culture of the public office. This Retreat will address the cultural, governance, professional, as well as the policy demands of these public officials whose role affects the fortune of their principals and their government.

The Workshop will undertake a clinic appraisal of the context, content, quality, and impact of political communication on the conduct of the last three general elections and their overall impact on the health of the Nation. It will also undertake a comparative analysis of political communication in the USA and the United Kingdom.

This workshop will add value, enhance the capacity, skills, and knowledge of participants.

Other Objectives of the Retreat include the following:

• To set standards as well as develop an ethical framework for political communication in Nigeria

• To explain the complex as well as the inter-disciplinary nature of political communication to encourage a wider scope in the selection of officers, and or train them where they do lack adequate relevant exposure

• To expose participants to global strategies and tactics of political communication, especially in a plural and highly complex society like Nigeria

• To facilitate relevant international exposure for participants

• To explain the relationship between political communication and national stability

Course Benefits:
Quality and practical programme. Participants will obtain two prestigious certificates:

• Professional Certificate of the Institute for Governance and Leadership Studies in Africa

• Associate Membership of the African Institute (AMAI)

Course Fee:
To be provided on request.

The Workshop will be highly interactive and evidence-based. Internationally Certified Experts will facilitate the Workshop. Simulation Exercises with the aid of instructional materials will be utilised.