The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board on Wednesday hosted the second edition of its Book Reading Series at the Nigerian Content Tower, Swali, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
 The session featured veteran journalist and former Editor of The PUNCH, Mr Dayo Oketola, who read from his book, The Catalyst: Nigerian Tech Evolution Through a Journalist’s Lens.
 The book detailed the history of mobile digital development in Nigeria and highlighted some challenges encountered on the way, including the NigComSat saga.
 In his welcome address, NCDMB General Manager, Corporate Communications Division, Dr Obinna Ezeobi, highlighted the board’s commitment to capacity development across the oil and gas industry and its linkage sectors.
Speaking to journalists at the end of the book reading, Oketola urged journalists to ruffle feathers, saying it is part of the job.
He however explained that he did not use the event hosted by a government agency to criticise another government agency (NigComSat).
On the book, Oketola said it has already ruffled feathers saying, “Enough feathers have been ruffled already. But, I am saying that the focus of today’s gathering is to do a reading and not to do a commentary.
“Feathers have been ruffled. I don’t want to turn this event hosted by NCDMB into a platform for criticising other agencies. So, you can ruffle feathers.”
Ezeobi stressed that education is a key focus area, citing NCDMB’s establishment of Centres of Excellence in universities as well as sponsorship of essay and quiz competitions in secondary schools and higher institutions.
The book reading attracted a diverse audience including writers, literature enthusiasts, students, and other distinguished guests.
Attendees were also treated to spoken word performances, adding a creative touch to the literary gathering.
NCDMB Executive Secretary, Engr Felix Omatsola Ogbe, was represented at the event by Dr Ezeobi who was accompanied by Mr Teleola Oyeleke, Supervisor, Media; Mr Teddy Bai, Supervisor, Government Relations; Mr Manfred Onisodemuya, Media Officer and other members of staff.
