Nigeria Enters Social Media Arena with Indigenous Platform
Media mogul Prince Nduka Obaigbena has announced the launch of LEKEELEKEE, a groundbreaking social media platform designed specifically for African users. The chairman of THISDAY Media Group and ARISE News Channel revealed the ambitious project during the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) 2025 in Abuja.
The platform is scheduled to go live in January 2026 and aims to challenge the current dominance of American and Chinese social media giants in global content distribution. Obaigbena emphasized the urgent need for Africa to reclaim its digital voice in an increasingly AI-driven media landscape.
Protecting African Digital Sovereignty
Obaigbena delivered a powerful warning about the risks of foreign control over digital content and artificial intelligence. "Nigeria must protect its media voice," he stated firmly during his address to editors. "Artificial intelligence and foreign dominance of digital content and distribution are reshaping media globally, potentially marginalising African voices."
The media executive expressed concern that without indigenous platforms, African perspectives risk being drowned out in the global digital conversation. LEKEELEKEE represents a strategic move to ensure that African creativity and viewpoints receive fair representation in the international media space.
Four Key Features of LEKEELEKEE
The new platform promises several innovative features tailored to African users' needs:
Fast, low-data feeds: The platform is optimized for African network conditions, offering rich media experiences without consuming excessive data.
Advanced messaging and communities: Users will enjoy seamless group interactions with built-in voice notes functionality.
Creator and ad ecosystem: A comprehensive monetization system with regional ad network will help content creators generate income.
Integrated payments and mini-apps: The platform will function as a super app, enabling various services, commerce, and transactions within one environment.
According to the platform's website, "LekeeLekee is designed for the realities of our networks and communities - fast, lightweight, and powerful." The social media super app will be available on iOS, Android, and web platforms, ensuring broad accessibility across different devices and connectivity levels.
Broader Economic and Democratic Concerns
Beyond the digital realm, Obaigbena addressed significant economic challenges facing Nigeria. He warned that the country's economic recovery could be undermined by potential US sanctions, urging citizens to unite in safeguarding democratic progress.
"Sanctions and external pressures can easily erode the fragile gains we have made," he cautioned, reflecting on Nigeria's political journey. The media veteran noted the contrast between past military rule, where editors were frequently summoned to the Presidential Villa, and today's democratic environment that allows free dialogue.
Obaigbena called on media professionals to embrace innovation while maintaining the integrity and independence of Nigeria's media industry. His dual focus on digital sovereignty and democratic resilience underscores the interconnected nature of technological and political freedom in contemporary Africa.
The launch of LEKEELEKEE marks a significant milestone in Africa's digital transformation journey, representing a determined effort to create a level playing field in global media distribution while amplifying authentic African voices worldwide.
