Edith CHUKU
Determined to promote literacy, critical thinking, and knowledge exchange through structured engagement with leading Nigerian authors and thought leaders, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board NCDMB, has announced April 15, for the fourth edition of its quarterly book reading programme.
The initiative is also aimed at promoting literacy and leadership through quarterly book reading, expand intellectual engagement platform beyond oil and gas sector, as well as, drive knowledge sharing and human capital development.
The event which would hold at the Nigerian Content Tower, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, will feature the former Director General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, Dr. Dakuku Peterside.
This was revealed in a statement on Tuesday, by the NCDMB General Manager, Corporate Communication, Obinna Ezeobi.
The board said that, “since its start in August 2014, the book reading series has served as a platform for intellectual discourse on thematic subjects, while reinforcing NCDMB’s commitment to human capital development beyond the oil and gas sector.
“This edition will focus on Dr. Peterside’s book “Leading in a Storm”, which explores practical approaches to leadership in times of uncertainty, crisis, and institutional change.
“Participants will engage with the author through a reading session, an interactive question-and-answer segment, and a book signing, providing a direct interface between the author and a diverse audience of professionals, industry stakeholders, and emerging leaders.
“Dr. Peterside is recognised for his work in crisis leadership, public sector reform, and organisational transformation. With over 24 years of leadership experience across both public and private sectors, he has led complex institutions and driven reforms aimed at improving performance and accountability.
“His contributions to leadership development have earned recognition from global scholars and practitioners, with Leading in a Storm described as a practical guide for navigating complex leadership challenges. The book was also named Book of the Year 2025 by THISDAY newspaper, further cementing its relevance in contemporary leadership discourse.
“Beyond his professional engagements, Dr. Peterside serves as an adjunct lecturer at leading business schools, where he mentors emerging leaders and shares insights from his extensive experience. He is also the author of other publications and continues to contribute to leadership thought through research, writing, and advisory roles.”
Speaking on the essence of the book reading programme, Ezeobi pointed that the programme seeks to encourage learning, innovation, and value-driven leadership.
He referenced the Board’s capacity building mandate, highlighting that the agency views the engagements as critical to building a knowledge-based society and strengthening the capacity of individuals to respond effectively to evolving economic and institutional challenges.
Ezeobi further disclosed that this fourth edition is expected to attract a wide range of participants, including professionals from the oil and gas industry, academia, government institutions, students, media, and the public.
“This programme will provide an opportunity for meaningful dialogue on leadership, resilience, and transformation, while advancing the Board’s broader objective of fostering intellectual growth and national development.”
Some of the authors who have featured in the book reading programme have included former Editor of The PUNCH Newspaper, Mr. Dayo Oketola, who authored “The Catalyst: Nigerian Tech Evolution Through a Journalist’s Lens,” the Senior Vice-chairman and Editor-in-chief at Leadership Newspaper, Mr. Azu Ishiekwene was the first guest on the platform in the August 2024 edition, where he shared insights from his book, “Writing for Media and Monetising It.
On his part, the Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, King Bubaraye Dakolo, also shared his book, “The Pirates of the Gulf.”
