Lai Mohammed

Lai Mohammed, born on December 15, 1952, in Oro, Kwara State, Nigeria, is a prominent Nigerian lawyer, politician, and public administrator who served as the Minister of Information and Culture of Nigeria from November 2015 to May 2023.Early Life and Education Lai Mohammed completed his secondary education at Government Secondary School, Pategi, Kwara State. He went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in French from Obafemi Awolowo University (formerly University of Ife) in 1975. Subsequently, he obtained a law degree (LL.B.) from the University of Lagos and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1980. He also holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communications.Career Progression Mohammed began his professional career in the legal field, establishing a reputation as a successful solicitor and advocate. His career transitioned into public service and politics in the early 2000s. From 1999 to 2002, he served as the Chief of Staff to the then Governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In 2002, he contested the gubernatorial election in Kwara State under the platform of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) but was unsuccessful. His most notable career chapter began with his appointment as the National Publicity Secretary of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), one of the major opposition parties at the time. Following the merger of opposition parties into the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, Mohammed continued his role, becoming the Interim National Publicity Secretary and eventually the National Publicity Secretary of the ruling party. He was widely recognized as the primary voice of the opposition and later the ruling party, known for his frequent and often controversial press statements.Major Achievements and Notable Works In November 2015, Lai Mohammed was appointed the Minister of Information and Culture by President Muhammadu Buhari. His major achievements during his tenure include:1. **Promotion of Creative Industries:** He oversaw initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria's film (Nollywood) and music industries, including advocating for policy changes to combat piracy and facilitate international collaborations. 2. **National Orientation Campaigns:** He spearheaded various national re-orientation campaigns, notably the "Change Begins With Me" campaign, designed to foster discipline, patriotism, and positive change among Nigerians. 3. **Digital Switch Over (DSO):** He played a significant role in the push for Nigeria's transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television broadcasting. 4. **Managing Government Communication:** As the government's official spokesperson, he was instrumental in communicating government policies, achievements, and positions on critical national issues, particularly during sensitive periods.Current Status Following the conclusion of President Buhari's administration in May 2023, Lai Mohammed completed his term as the Minister of Information and Culture. He remains a prominent and influential figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Nigerian political landscape.