FCCPC: Urges Media Collaboration, Training for Nigeria Consumer Protection

• The FCCPC is urging journalists to undergo sustained capacity building in competition and consumer protection reporting, a field considered new in Nigeria.
• FCCPC CEO Tunji Bello, represented by Louis Odion, highlighted the importance of media knowledge and confirmed the commission would consider CICAN's training request.
• Stakeholder education is a priority for the FCCPC due to the novelty of competition law and consumer protection regulation in Nigeria.
• The commission recently supported a training program for judges through the National Judicial Institute to deepen their understanding of competition matters.
• The media's sustained coverage has significantly increased public awareness of the FCCPC and its activities, as acknowledged by the commission.

The FCCPC views stakeholder education as a paramount objective, largely due to the recent introduction and evolving nature of competition law and consumer protection regulation in Nigeria.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has emphasized the critical need for ongoing professional development among journalists specializing in competition and consumer protection reporting. This call comes as the commission acknowledges the relatively nascent stage of this specialized journalistic field within Nigeria.

Tunji Bello, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, conveyed this message during a recent meeting with executive members of the Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN). The gathering took place at the FCCPC's headquarters in Abuja. A statement released on Sunday detailed Bello's remarks, which were delivered by Louis Odion, the Executive Commissioner for Operations.

During the engagement, Bello underscored the importance of equipping journalists with the necessary expertise to accurately cover complex issues related to competition and consumer protection. He also indicated that the FCCPC would give due consideration to CICAN's request for dedicated training programs and further collaborative initiatives. Bello explicitly stated that competition reporting is indeed a new area within Nigeria's legal and media landscape.

The FCCPC views stakeholder education as a paramount objective, largely due to the recent introduction and evolving nature of competition law and consumer protection regulation in Nigeria. This strategic focus aims to build a foundational understanding across various sectors.

In line with this commitment, the commission recently provided support for a specialized training program designed for judges. This initiative, conducted through the National Judicial Institute, sought to enhance judicial officers' comprehension of intricate competition-related matters. The FCCPC recognized that, given the novelty of this legal terrain, judges themselves might not be fully conversant with its specific nuances, prompting the involvement of expert competition specialists. This proactive approach highlights the FCCPC's dedication to ensuring a robust and informed legal interpretation of these critical regulations.

Beyond professional development, the FCCPC's leadership, represented by Tunji Bello, also highlighted the indispensable role of the media in amplifying public awareness regarding the commission and its operational activities. Bello credited sustained media coverage with significantly increasing public familiarity with the agency, noting that many Nigerians had limited knowledge of the FCCPC until recent years.

He specifically acknowledged that the commission's growing public recognition is a direct result of the publicity generated by journalists. Bello expressed appreciation for the media's consistent front-page treatment of FCCPC statements and developments. Concurrently, Gabriel Kuma, the Abuja Chairman of CICAN, affirmed his association's commitment to constructive journalism and fostering stronger relationships with regulatory bodies. Kuma articulated that effective regulation necessitates a professional partnership between regulators and the media, founded on principles of openness, accountability, and access to precise information.

CICAN, Kuma stated, is prepared for constructive reporting that ensures institutional accountability. He emphasized that a robust regulator benefits from a strong media relationship characterized by transparency, professionalism, mutual respect, and access to accurate data. Kuma assured the FCCPC that CICAN stands ready to assist in public education, explaining significant regulatory changes, and promoting greater awareness of consumer rights and fair competition.

The FCCPC has reiterated its commitment to providing support to various stakeholders, operating within the confines of its available resources. The commission primarily finances its significant operational aspects, including litigation, staff welfare, and regulatory functions, through internally generated revenue.

Looking ahead, CICAN is preparing to commemorate its 20th anniversary with a national dialogue. This significant event will convene policymakers, regulators, investors, industry leaders, and other key stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for accelerating Nigeria's economic growth. The dialogue, themed "FG’s $1 Trillion Economy: Role of Policy Makers," is scheduled for Tuesday, October 20, 2026, and will take place at the Barcelona Hotel in Abuja.

Lawyers and compliance officers in Nigeria should note the FCCPC's proactive efforts to educate both the judiciary and the media on competition and consumer protection laws. This indicates an anticipated increase in the sophistication of legal interpretation and public awareness in these areas, necessitating a thorough review of client practices for compliance and preparedness for potential enforcement actions or litigation.

Source: Original reporting via Punch