Lagos, 25 September 2025 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Channels Television, one of Nigeria’s largest media houses in the country, to strengthen collaboration on advancing national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This partnership brings together UNDP’s thought leadership in sustainable development and Channels TV’s unparalleled reach and credibility in broadcasting. By leveraging the media’s “soft power,” the alliance aims to influence public discourse, shape narratives, and inspire collective action towards inclusive growth and sustainable development in Nigeria.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah, UNDP Nigeria Representative emphasized: “This partnership is about more than coverage - it is about shifting the narrative. It will serve as a platform for social change, providing a voice to Nigerians who are driving transformation at the community level and beyond. By creating platforms for open development dialogue, we will elevate the concerns of local communities, civil society organizations, and youth innovators - turning their ideas into opportunities for policy dialogue and action. These conversations will allow Nigerians to actively engage in the development process, ensuring their concerns are heard and their contributions are recognized.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Dr. John Momoh, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Channels Media Group stated that, “At Channels Television, we believe journalism is not just about telling stories - it is about shaping the future. This partnership with UNDP provides an opportunity to drive meaningful conversations, spotlight Nigerian innovations, and promote inclusive governance and development.”

Key Objectives of the Partnership:

1. Shaping Public Narratives and Advancing the SDGs
   The collaboration will move beyond reportage to actively frame key development issues through investigative journalism, human-interest stories, and expert-led discussions. This approach will transform the SDGs from abstract global goals into urgent, personal imperatives for Nigerians - highlighting the “why” behind climate action, governance, innovation, and inclusive growth.

2. Amplifying Stories of Transformation and Impact
   By creating platforms for development dialogue, the partnership will amplify the voices of diverse groups across Nigeria, including youth, innovators, civil society, and communities, into the national conversation. It will provide visibility for local solutions, inspiring innovation and influencing policy through evidence-driven storytelling.

3. Strengthening Development Communications Capacity
   Leveraging UNDP’s multi-sectoral expertise and Channels TV’s journalistic excellence, the partnership will incubate the next generation of development communicators. This will build capacities to report on complex issues from a human-centered perspective, nurturing storytellers who can connect policy with people.

Through this MoU, UNDP and Channels Television reaffirm their shared commitment to building an informed, engaged, and empowered Nigerian society - where public discourse accelerates action for people, planet, and prosperity.

Note to Editors

About UNDP:

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organisation fighting to end the injustices of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with a broad network of experts and partners in over 170 countries, UNDP helps nations to build integrated and lasting solutions for people and the planet.

UNDP Nigeria is driving a new era of development through its Integrated Smart States Programme (ISSP), a bold, system-wide approach that delivers high-impact solutions across Nigeria’s diverse regions. At its core are five flagship portfolios focused on innovation, digital transformation, and the knowledge economy; trade, investment and financing for development; integrated, clean and decentralized energy systems; accelerated community development; and the Made in Nigeria initiative. Together, they enable inclusive, locally led growth, while deepening institutional capacity and unlocking scalable, future-ready development pathways. Learn more: https://www.undp.org/nigeria

About Channels Media House:

Channels Television is a Nigerian and Africa's most awarded independent 24-hour television network based in Lagos, Nigeria, known for its professionalism, which is anchored on Truth and integrity.

The parent company, Channels Incorporated, was founded in 1992, a year before the Nigerian government deregulated the broadcast media. It began broadcasting in 1995. Its primary focus is producing news and current affairs programs on Nigeria, Africa, and global issues. The Channel's mission is to act as a watchdog on governmental policies and activities, as well as citizens' rights and responsibilities.

Media Contact:

Mr. Kingsley Uranta

General Manager Channels TV Media Academy/Partnerships & Corporate Communications

Channels Global Headquarters

Phone: +234 8033042013

Email:kduranta@channelstv.com

Ms. Christabel Chanda - Ginsberg

Public Engagement, Outreach & Partnerships Lead

United National Development Programme

Email: christabel.chanda-ginsberg@undp.org