By Simeon OSAJIE
The Managing Director (MD) of Independent Television and Radio, Engr. Elvis Obaseki, has provided insight into the station’s activities lined up for its 29th Founder’s Day, scheduled for Thursday, 23rd April, 2026.
Engr Obaseki gave the insight while speaking on ITVs flagship programme ‘This Morning On ITV’.
Speaking ahead of the anniversary, Engr. Obaseki recounted the journey of ITV since its inception in 1997, noting that the station has remained committed to its founding vision of credible, people-focused broadcasting despite industry challenges. He emphasized innovation, digital expansion, and community service as key pillars that will drive the next phase of the station’s growth.
According to Engr. Obaseki, the lecture series is to provide answers to salient questions on the topic ‘Quo Vadamus’ Nigeria, Where Are We Going? reflective of Nigeria’s developmental journey and the numerous challenges saying the event will feature erudite scholars, including former Pro- Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council, Ambrose Ali University, (AAU), Ekpoma, Sir, Chief Lawson Omokhodion as the Keynote Speaker while Honourary Romanian Consul to Edo and Delta States of Nigeria, His Excellency, Sir, Chief, (Dr.) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom will be the Chief Host
Other panelist at the occasion are Edo State Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua and Dr. Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor, Director General, Edo State Diaspora Agency, Dean, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Benin, Professor Marcel Okhakhu and a former Director, Guild of Editors Of Nigeria
Dr. Victor Okhai will serve as the anchor.
ITV Founded by H. E Sir Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, received broadcasting license No. 001 on 26th June, 1993 from then Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida, making it the first privately owned broadcasting station in Nigeria, commencing full transmission on March 27, 1997.
ITV broke the government monopoly on TV broadcasting in Nigeria and set the pace for private broadcast media after the 1992 National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) deregulation. It remains one of the most influential regional broadcasters in South-South Nigeria, with TV and radio arms under Independent Television and Radio (ITV/Radio).
The 29th ITV Founders Day Lecture is scheduled for Thursday 23rd April, 2026 at Ehizua Hub, Airport Road, Benin City at 9.30am.