The 51st annual general meeting/congress of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria will focus on the importance of practitioners adopting technology.

The event, with the theme ‘Breaking the Mold – Creativity and National Development,’ is scheduled to take place from July 18–20, 2024. It will be officially opened by the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Adedapo Abiodun.

A statement released by AAAN on Friday revealed that the AGM/Congress will also involve the election of a new executive committee tasked with overseeing the association for the next two years.

The President of the Association, Mr. Steve Babaeko, emphasized that the event will commence with courtesy visits to the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo Aremu III, and the Osile of Oke-Ona, Oba Adedapo Tejuosho. Babaeko highlighted that the AGM/Congress provides an opportunity to examine the role of advertising in national development.

Babaeko stated, “The 51st AGM/Congress provides an excellent platform for a comprehensive evaluation of the advertising sector, its current impact on the country’s socio-economic welfare, and how it can further enhance its influence, as reflected by its theme. The Nigerian advertising industry significantly contributes to the country’s gross domestic product.”

According to Babaeko, a recent report by PwC emphasized the contributions of the advertising industry. “Commissioned by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria and funded by various industry associations, the report assessed the industry’s value at N605.2 billion,” he added.

Additionally, the Chairman of the Events Planning Committee, Mr. Doyin Adewumi, mentioned that a lineup of experts from various industries will discuss the theme of the AGM, offering fresh perspectives for AAAN members. “The association recognizes the value of expertise from other fields, which is why it is a tradition to invite accomplished professionals in other sectors to provide valuable insights for advertising professionals to enhance their knowledge and skills,” Adewumi highlighted.

Anietie Udoh, an Executive Director with MARKETING EDGE Publications Ltd stands as a proud delegate of the leading marketing and advertising magazine at the on-going prestigious Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity holding in Cannes, Paris.

His participation as a VVIP under- scores the height and essence of MARKETING EDGE commitment to Cannes Lions as a media partner as well as the publications unwavering commitment to promoting the brand idea by expanding the frontiers of marketing and advertising knowledge.

His presence and coverage of the event along the huge turn- out of Nigerian agencies contingents and corporate players from different sectors of the Nigerian economy also sign-posts a renewed interest by the Nigerian agencies and other corporate players to benchmark their practice and skills with global standards.

Similarly, MARKETING EDGE recognition as a media partner with a VVIP status is a clear testimony of the publications’ significant contributions and growing influence on global industry affairs as a market leader and thought leadership positioning.

Commenting on the development,Publisher / CEO of MARKETING EDGE Publications ,Mr John Ajayi said ” the presence of Nigerian agencies at Cannes, as revealed by the different category of dynamic leaders and young talents is a remarkable achievement for the industry and the nation,noting that Anietie’s participation almost three years consecutively exemplifies the magazine’s ongoing commitment to global excellence and innovation.
He stated further that “Anietie’s contributions have not only amplified MARKETING EDGE’s voice but also secured its place on the global stage, ensuring that Nigerian marketing and advertising expertise garners the recognition it rightfully deserves.”

The marketing expert’s journey with MARKETING EDGE is marked by a profound dedication and visionary leadership that has significantly elevated the magazine’s profile

Throughout the years, the seasoned professional has been a driving force in building goodwill, fostering industry relationships, and positioning the magazine as a key player on the international stage.

His relentless efforts have ensured that MARKETING EDGE remains at the forefront of promoting the brand idea, a concept deeply embedded in its mission and pay-off line.

MARKETING EDGE has consistently championed the brand idea, shaping the integrated marketing communications and advertising landscape in Nigeria. The magazine’s commitment to delivering insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of brand news extends beyond national borders, offering readers a global perspective on industry trends. This expansive vision has been significantly propelled by the marketing manager’s strategic initiatives and unwavering commitment.

At Cannes, his representation of MARKETING EDGE is more than symbolic; it is a testament to the magazine’s dedication to global engagement and partnership building. His presence at this esteemed festival highlights the strides Nigerian agencies are making in the international arena.

There is no doubt that his ability to build lasting relationships, expand global networks, and drive MARKETING EDGE’s mission forward is truly commendable.

As he represents the magazine at Cannes and beyond, the brand enthusiast continues to inspire, paving the way for future growth and success for MARKETING EDGE and the broader Nigerian marketing communications industry.

PHD Nigeria has achieved remarkable success at the Pitcher Award 2024, being named Media Agency of the Year and emerging as the Most Awarded Media Agency during the Pitchers Festival of Creativity. The agency secured a total of 22 awards, including one gold, ten silver, and eleven bronze medals, as well as 2 shortlists in recognition of its exceptional contributions to the industry.
The Pitcher Festival, renowned as the premier Pan-African celebration of creativity and excellence in advertising, brought together leading agencies from across Africa to showcase their best work. Esteemed jury members from the continent and beyond praised the high caliber of submissions, ensuring that only the most outstanding campaigns received accolades.
The Managing Director, Dozie Okafor said “It’s an honor to be recognized as the Media Agency of the Year. This is a recognition of our commitment to excellence, and a reflection of the hard work, dedication and innovation of our people. It is the collective contributions of our partners and vendors, and the trust from our clients that have made this possible”
The Media Agency of the Year Award celebrates the media agency that has won the most awards in the media category. This accolade underscores PHD Nigeria’s leadership in the media industry, consistently delivering top-tier services and groundbreaking campaigns.
“We are committed to maintaining this high standard of excellence and continuing to lead the way in the media landscape across Africa. This achievement motivates us to keep innovating and delivering exceptional results.” Okafor added
The Pitcher Award 2024 has showcased the remarkable talent and creativity within the African advertising community. PHD Nigeria’s impressive award haul highlights its role as a frontrunner in the industry. As the agency celebrates this significant achievement, it remains focused on driving innovation and excellence in all its endeavors.
“What better time to be awarded the Media Agency of the Year as we have just launched a new brand identity as a network globally,” said the Chief Marketing Officer, Henry Ononiwu. “With our new identity and tagline “Intelligence. Connected.” we are pushing the boundaries of innovation further to help our clients Outthink, Outpace and Outgrow their competition and we look forward to more award wins going into the future” Ononiwu added.
About PHD:
PHD, an Omnicom Media Group Agency, helps the world’s leading brands outthink, outpace, and outgrow the marketplace with a next-generation network of tools, talent and technology engineered for Intelligence. Connected. Collaborating on the AI-powered Omni operating system, 6500 people in 81 offices across 74 countries connect data, technology, and human expertise to deliver modern media solutions that drive brands and businesses forward. Headquartered in the UK, PHD is one of the most awarded media agency networks in the world according to the WARC Media 100, an independent ranking of campaigns and companies for creativity and innovation; and was named 2024
Global Media Network of the Year by leading US advertising publication Adweek.

The National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) is gearing up for its highly anticipated 2024 Annual Marketing Conference (AMC) and Annual General Meeting (AGM). Scheduled to take place from June 20th to June 22nd, the event is expected to be a significant milestone for the Nigerian marketing industry.

The upcoming conference aims to bring together leading marketing professionals, entrepreneurs, government officials, and business thought leaders in Nigeria. Attendees will gather to explore the theme of the conference, “Empowering Nigerian Brands: Leveraging Local Content for Global Success.”

With a diverse range of keynote speakers, panel sessions featuring industry experts, and distinguished speakers, the conference will delve into the strategies and innovations driving Nigerian brands towards global recognition. More than just a gathering, this event will serve as a platform for exchanging ideas, networking, and fostering professional relationships that could influence the future of marketing in Nigeria.

In addition to the insightful discussions, the event will feature a Symposium and Induction for Associates and Full members on June 20th, followed by the prestigious Fellows Investiture and Dinner on June 21st. The highlight of the event will be the Annual General Meeting and Elections on June 22nd, where financial members will convene to address key matters, including the election of the First and Second Vice-Presidents and Two (2) Council seats.

Ressa will deliver a keynote speech at the Festival

Cannes Lions has today announced Maria Ressa as the 2024 Cannes LionHeart recipient. One of the Festival’s most prestigious Awards, the accolade is given to a person who has harnessed their position to make a significant and positive difference to the world around us. Ressa is the Co-Founder and CEO of Rappler, the top digital-only news site leading the fight for press freedom in the Philippines.

As Rappler’s CEO, Ressa has led their battle for truth and democracy, and has endured constant political harassment and arrests by the Duterte government, forced to post bail 10 times to stay free. Her most recent book, How to Stand Up to a Dictator, was released in November 2022 and has been translated into 20 languages, with more to come.

Simon Cook, CEO, LIONS, said: “We’re delighted to honour Maria Ressa with such an important accolade. This recognition underpins the relentless dedication to safeguarding freedom of expression, through her remarkable leadership of Rappler to combat the spread of misinformation. The LionHeart is awarded to those who are making a genuine difference to the world, and Maria has been instrumental in redefining investigative journalism. Her creativity and work is an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to honouring her at the Festival in June.”

On receiving the award, Maria Ressa commented: “We’re standing on the rubble of the world that was: where technology, violence and war challenge our humanity. The Cannes LionHeart reminds us that imagination and creativity, sparking empathy, are crucial to get us through these dark times; that power and money are not enough; and that inspiration ignites the good in each of us. Thank you for recognizing the work of Rappler, where we continue to fight against the odds to help create the world we want.”

Under Ressa’s leadership, Rappler has remained committed to journalistic integrity and credible storytelling, as she focuses critical attention on the breakdown of our global information ecosystem and how interconnected communities of action can hold the line to protect democratic values. For her courage and journalistic integrity, Maria has received numerous accolades, including in October 2021, being one of two journalists awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her “efforts to safeguard freedom of expression, which is a precondition for democracy and lasting peace”.

Ressa will take to the Debussy Stage during the day on Friday 21 June to deliver her keynote speech and exclusive interview, ahead of being presented The Cannes LionHeart Award during the final Awards Show of the Festival that evening. Further information on Cannes Lions, including speakers and how to attend, can be found at www.canneslions.com.

… As Dentsu Creative, Dentsu Agyle, Dentsu OOH, Dentsu Performance Win Design, Film, Media Categories

Pitcher Festival’s Young Professionals Academy has announced that talents from MediaFuse-Dentsu Nigeria’s networks – Dentsu Creative, Dentsu Agyle, Dentsu Performance, and Dentsu Out Of Home  – took home top honours in the media, film, and design categories of its Cannes Young Lions Competitions.

The announcement, which was made on Monday, confirmed that MediaFuse-Dentsu Nigeria talents and other winners from West and Central Africa would represent their countries at the Global Young Lions Competition in Cannes, scheduled for June 17–21, 2024.

According to the announcement, Dentsu Performance’s Stephanie Ume, and Joseph Uwandu of Dentsu OOH Nigeria triumphed in the media category with their groundbreaking campaign concept, showcasing their expertise in crafting strategic media solutions.

Also, MediaFuse-Dentsu’s Film team members, Esther Usoro and Adaora Muoh of Dentsu Agyle, won after captivating the jury with a compelling and impactful short film, demonstrating their exceptional storytelling capabilities that create awareness about Club Foot.

The design category also saw Adebimisola Sotade and Sheriff Oyejobi of Dentsu Creative Nigeria securing the top prize with their innovative design thinking concept and exceptional execution.

MediaFuse-Dentsu Nigeria’s talents keenly contested with others from West and Central African countries to emerge victorious, according to a press statement by Dentsu Nigeria’s Corporate Communications Manager, Sodiq Oyeleke.

The Chief Executive Officer of MediaFuse-Dentsu Nigeria, Emeka Chris Okeke, congratulated Dentsu Nigeria’s teams for their impressive performance.

He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work churned out by the winning teams, saying that they demonstrated innovative ideas, strategic thinking, and exceptional execution.

Okeke said, “Taking home top honours in the media, film, and design categories is a remarkable feat that underscores Dentsu Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a dynamic creative environment.

“The Cannes Young Lions Competition is a highly competitive global platform that recognises and celebrates the next generation of creative leaders in the advertising and marketing industry. We are incredibly proud of our talented young lions at Dentsu Nigeria for achieving this remarkable accomplishment. Their dedication, creativity, and passion for storytelling are truly inspiring.”

On his part, the Managing Director of Dentsu OOH, Chike Oputa, described Dentsu Nigeria’s success at the Young Lions Awards as a significant accomplishment.

“This places us at the forefront of fostering young creative talent in Nigeria and Africa. The company’s commitment to providing a nurturing environment that empowers young professionals to thrive will continue to propel the industry forward,” he stated.

The Chief Operating Officer of Dentsu Agyle, Marian Ogaziechi, also celebrated “the next generation of creative leaders”, noting that the company would continue to invest in human capital.

Ogaziechi said, “This phenomenal win is a true testament to the boundless creativity and innovative spirit of our young talents.  Their award-winning film about Club Foot is a masterpiece of visual storytelling and strategic thinking.”

“This win is a testament to our commitment to cultivating the next generation of creative leaders and shaping the future of the advertising industry,” the Chief Operating Officer of Dentsu Creative, Funke Adekola, added.

General Manager of Dentsu Performance Nigeria, Elizabeth Akinyele, noted that the victorious emergence of the talents “reflects the brilliance and strategic prowess of our young media minds and proof that they are a force to be reckoned with.”

The journey of the most turbulent and divisive times in the Nigerian Marketing Communications Industry started in 2021 with the launch of the Advertising Industry Standard of Practice (AISOP) by the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON), now The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON). APCON had disclosed that AISOP will provide minimum standard in terms of commercial activities of agencies, advertisers, media houses, advertising services providers and stakeholders, in matters relating to the business of advertising and related areas of marketing communications in Nigeria. However, what APCON claimed to be an Industry Standard of Practice was actually a document on payment and engagement terms, which sought to unconstitutionally regulate contractual relations between private entities (Advertisers and their agencies). ADVAN being a body founded to provide an organised forum for advertisers to express their views and influence developmental changes in Nigerian marketing communications scene, had expressed its concerns about AISOP, particularly its unconstitutional attempt to infringe on the rights of private entities to determine their contractual terms.

It is worthy to note that while the Leadership of APCON has claimed that it invited all critical stakeholders to deliberate on the AISOP, the truth is that the ADVAN has clearly stated on several occasions, both in private with the Registrar of APCON Dr Lekan Fadolapo, and in many public fora, that not a single contribution presented by ADVAN was included in the AISOP.

In 2022, a new APCON law was publicized which changed the name of APCON to the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON). The new law has several provisions that are clearly unconstitutional, and has caused great concern for the industry. A major item that has stood out for stakeholders is that ARCON is now allowed set up a tribunal that would hold ‘trials’ for any persons or organization that contravened the provisions of the ARCON law. This is an extremely concerning development, because Nigeria as a democratic entity has clear separation of powers between the different arms of government. A regulatory body for advertising cannot set up a tribunal with powers to hear, try, deliver judgment and sentence, as such is clearly a violation of the constitution of the nation. ARCON cannot constitutionally act as both the prosecutor and the judge in relation to matters which they have by themselves, labelled as advertising offences. The tribunal constituted by ARCON is merely an appendage of ARCON and is propagating the agenda of ARCON.

In January 2024, ARCON issued notices to law abiding organizations in Nigeria on various unclear charges of infractions, with fines up to N1 million per infraction. It is critical to note that these organizations include multinationals, Indigenous conglomerates and various levels of businesses, that serve as the back bone of the Nigerian economy. ARCON has now issued notices to the CEOs of these organizations to face the ARCON ‘Tribunal’ on various claims of infractions.

The Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN) vehemently opposes the harassment of her members (which are corporate entities that utilize advertising and marketing to promote their goods and services). These invitations to CEOs of reputable Nigerian brands, to stand ‘trial’ is a huge embarrassment and humiliation of law-abiding corporate entities, and has caused a total loss of trust for ARCON as an institution. The harassment and threats of criminal trials to CEOs of both local and multi-nationals is antithetical to the reforms being proposed by the Federal Government through the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council on Ease of Doing Business (PEBEC), and the need to remove all forms of bottlenecks in driving the Nigerian economy.

ADVAN members hereby speak unequivocally against this travesty called ARCON Regulation, as a continuance of this line of action will sabotage all forms of viable activities in the industry. Regulation should be instrumental to an enabling environment where stakeholders can count on fair, clearly articulated guidelines for business activities, and ADVAN members are very supportive of all fair regulations, which enable equitable business activities.

Some critical questions to ARCON include:

What are the clearly articulated guidelines for digital advertising, in view of the fact that digital advertising cannot be regulated as traditional advertising?

What constitutes online advertising? is it paid communication, is it all and any posts on corporate social media pages and websites? Do all these fall under the same category and payment structures?

Can a post on a company’s website or social media page that is not paid for, be seen as advertisement?

What has been the engagement process to stakeholders on ARCONs regulation of online advertising?

Regulation cannot be ambiguous or selective in its applications, it should be clearly defined with stakeholders continuously engaged in a quest for seamless implementation.

Nigeria is currently bowed under one of the most turbulent economic conditions. The position of regulatory institutions at these dire times should be one of research and benchmarking for relevant policies, and consistent stakeholder engagement towards viable economic solutions and growth.

It is time for ARCON to pull the reins on its regime of arbitrary policy initiatives, that is pushing a once buoyant and collaborative industry into chaos, and embark on critical stakeholder dialogue and engagement to foster renewed hope and support for the industry.

The Institute of Brands Management of Nigeria (IBMN) has announced date for its 2024 edition of West African Brands Excellence Awards.

In a statement made available to newsmen recently in Lagos, the organisers of the award disclosed that, the much coveted award will take place on the 28th February 2024 at the Muson Centre, Agip Recital Hall, Marina, Onikan, Lagos Nigeria.

According to them, the event will feature a conference, Mini Exhibition, Brands Presentation and Awards pesentation. At the conference, Brands Experts such as Victor Ademola Dairo, Akpo Gordons and Chief Executive Officer, Palmpay, Mr. Chika Nwosu will be speaking on the theme: Celebrating Great Brands Making Impacts in the West African sub-region.

The organisers of the event further disclosed that, the event which will be in its 13th edition will also showcase West Africa Brands Exhibition 2024 which is aimed at promoting West Africa Brands in the marketplace.

“It is a platform meant to showcase Brands and Products of companies in West Africa to increase Brand visibility and to reinforce Brands strategic relationship with their consumer.” They added.

Also, the statement pointed out that, the West Africa Brands Excellence 2024 aims to identify, recognize and reward companies that apply Branding culture and Branding Management Policies designed to achieve corporate objectives in both profit and non-profit organization in west African countries, adding that, the brands Presentation will give brands the platform to demonstrate their brands commitments to consumers/prospects in attendance at the event.

In addition, awards will be conferred on few West African companies, Brands and Individuals who made impacts on lives of West African consumers through their innovative ideas.

The Institute of Brand Management of Nigeria (IBMN) is a Professional Membership Organization for Brand Management and Brand Experts. Since its inception in 2007, the Institute has been at the forefront of developing Brand Management in the country assisting Executives and their organization to improve their performance and achieve success through knowledge, Education and professional Development.

This, the Institute has done over the years through its high impact Seminar, Conferences, Event Open Course and Programme.

IBMN serves Professionals in all aspects of Brand Management and Membership of IBMN is open to any individual, agency and corporation with interest in Brand Management.

Henry Ononiwu has been appointed as the Chief Marketing Officer of PHD Nigeria, bringing with him over 15 years of diverse experience across various sectors.

A seasoned manager and business strategist, Henry’s professional journey encompasses roles in IT/Automotive Security, Pharma, Consulting, and Marketing. His expertise spans HR, Sales & Marketing, Supply Chain, Business Development, Project Management, and Partnerships Lead.

Prior to his new role, he most recently served as the Head of New Business, Projects & Partnerships for PHD Nigeria. In this capacity, Henry played a pivotal role in overseeing new business growth, managing partnerships, and leading projects for Nigeria, with additional oversight functions in some markets across West & Central Africa.

Known for his proven track record, the marketing professional has also excelled in creating and implementing growth strategies. His expertise includes business development, market penetration, expansion, contract negotiations, account management, and resource management.

Henry is distinguished as a business growth strategist who forges robust client relationships and partnerships based on trust. An executive with an entrepreneurial spirit, he has a history of leading companies to growth and market differentiation. His accomplishments include generating new business opportunities and cultivating lucrative partnerships.

An alumnus of the prestigious Lagos Business School, Henry has furthered his education through various local and international training programs. His academic background also includes a Bachelor of Arts in History & Strategic Studies from the University of Lagos.

Beyond his corporate endeavors, Henry actively engages in the media industry, serving on various executive committees and driving impactful projects for the sector. He also contributes to the development of media executives by facilitating training programs.