The Southern African Times, an esteemed international magazine, has made its debut in Nigeria with a mission to enhance Africa’s unity and celebrate its rich heritage.
Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja during the official launch, Professor Williams Ijoma, Chairman of the magazine, highlighted the strategic importance of the expansion into West Africa.
“This move marks a significant milestone in our publication’s seven-year history,” Ijoma emphasised.
He quoted Mercy Gilbert, the Editor at Large spearheading the expansion, who underscored the initiative’s goal to bolster the Southern African Times’ presence in the West African media landscape.
The endeavor, conducted in collaboration with Naijoinfo News and the Global Migration Research Institute (GMRI), aims to leverage Nigeria’s vast market potential, which boasts a population of 218.5 million people.
Ijoma stressed that the expansion aligned with opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), promising substantial growth and development across the continent.
“We believe in telling our own stories and highlighting Africa’s diverse cultural tapestry.
“Nigeria serves as a pivotal gateway for our operations in West Africa, tapping into a burgeoning market.
“The digital realm holds particular promise, with projections indicating significant growth in the Digital Newspapers & Magazines sector,”he said.
Ijoma highlighted Nigeria’s shift towards digital platforms due to increased internet penetration, presenting an opportune moment for the Southern African Times to expand its digital footprint.
“Our presence in Nigeria signifies more than just business; it underscores our commitment to fostering African unity and showcasing the continent’s heritage through quality journalism.
“We are here to bring the best of West Africa to a global audience, presenting stories from a distinctly West African perspective and innovating solutions to regional challenges,”he said.
This launch marks the Southern African Times’ dedication to advancing cultural understanding and economic development across Africa, starting with Nigeria as its gateway to the West African region.
