The Federal Government has appealed to the members of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration and support government commitment to the value reorientation of citizens.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris made this appeal in his goodwill message at the opening of the 50th anniversary conference of AAAN in Abuja yesterday.
The minister said advertising plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception, driving economic growth, and fostering creativity and innovation.
“Over the past five decades, this association has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, professionalism, and ethical standards in the field of advertising,” he said. “Your dedication has not only propelled the industry forward but has also inspired countless individuals and organizations to strive for greatness.”
Alhaji Idris who was represented by the Director, Public Communication and National Orientation, Sunday Baba, said he recognizes the critical importance of effective communication and the role that advertising agencies play in disseminating information, promoting national unity, and driving positive social change.
“I commend your unwavering commitment to promoting ethical advertising practices and contributing to the growth and development of our Nation. We are forthright in our determination to set this nation on a path of growth.
“Your 50th Anniversary Conference therefore presents an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the past, celebrate our achievements, and chart a course for a brighter future in the advertising industry, viz-a-viz, Nigeria. I look forward to engaging in meaningful discussions, sharing insights, and collaborating with the esteemed members of this association as occasions demand,” The minister said.
Also speaking, the Chairman House of Representatives committee on Information and Communication, Ethics and Values, Hon. Steve Olusola, expressed delight that the AAAN has been in the forefront of promoting Nigeria’s cultural values outside the country, adding that the association has demonstrated Nigeria’s capacity to respond to new trends.
He charged the members to remain focused in the quest to build a nation where the citizens can be proud to belong. He promised that the National Assembly is ever ready to offer support whenever it is needed.
Director General of the Advertising Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, congratulated the AAAN members for attaining the golden age and affirmed the readiness of ARCON to support AAAN to ensure the sustainance of standards in advertising.
Earlier in his welcome address, President of AAAN, Steve Babaeko, while welcoming the guests to the conference said the theme for the anniversary conference which is: “50 Years Young, Ready for More,” going by the dynamic changes the industry has witnessed, especially the influx of young professionals and agencies, the association can confidently assert that it is living up to the theme.
According to him, “Our industry has confronted the dual challenges of macroeconomic headwinds and technological disruption, which have impacted not only our clients’ bottom lines but our own as well. However, even in the midst of these turbulent times, I firmly believe that the future of our industry holds promise. By standing united as members of the same family, we can navigate these challenges and emerge stronger.
“To all our clients and the numerous brands we’ve nurtured over the past five decades, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and patronage.”
In his remarks, the chairman of the conference and a former president of AAAN, Mr. Udeme Ufot, said the association has come a long way. He paid glowing tributes to the founding fathers whom he said laid the solid foundation on which the present leadership is building on.
The opening ceremony also featured panel discussion as well as a keynote speech with the theme: The African Initiative to the World by Professor Akinwunmi.