By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, on Friday lauded the Association of Advertising Agencies in Nigeria (AAAN) for its 50-year achievements.
Idris gave the commendation at the 50th Anniversary and Annual General.
Meeting/Conference of AAAN in Abuja.
The conference which had the theme, “The African Initiative to the World” and Anniversary sub-theme, “50 Years Young, Ready for More” was supported by many relevant stakeholders.
The minister, who was represented by Mr Sunday Baba, Director, Public Communication in the ministry, also sought for the association’s cooperation in keying into the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This conference is a testament of the AAAN’s remarkable journey and invaluable contributions to the advertising industry in Nigeria.
“Advertising plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception, driving economic growth and fostering creativity and innovation.
“And over the past five decades, AAAN has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, professionalism and ethical standards in the field of advertising,” Idris said.
He commended the association for its unwavering commitment to promoting ethical advertising practices and contributing to the nation’s growth and development.
He noted that the association’s dedication had not only propelled the industry forward, but also inspired countless individuals and organisations to strive for greatness.
“As you all know, the recent election of President Bola Tinubu has presented us with a set of opportunities to set this nation on a higher pedestal.
“We therefore need the support of all veritable change agents in the formal, informal and the private sectors to move our great nation in the direction of sustainable growth on all frontiers of our economy.
“While positive changes can present some challenges, we are encouraged by the knowledge that the outcome will be of immense benefit to the teeming populace.
“In this direction, we are soliciting for the cooperation of the AAAN in keying into this administration’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ and in supporting government’s commitment to the value reorientation of citizens.
“I look forward to engaging in meaningful discussions, sharing insights and collaborating with the esteemed members of this association as occasion demands.
“We are forthright in our determination to set this nation on a path of growth,” the minister said.
Also, the House Committee Chairman on Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Values, Mr Victor Olufemi Fatoba, commended the AAAN for having come a long way.
Fatoba said: “On our part as Parliament, we will continue to support you in whatever way necessary. Consider us your partners in progress on this journey.
“I will personally engage with the leadership of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria to see to the full implementation of the local content required in its new Act.”
Speaking, the President of AAAN, Mr Steve Babaeko, said that in the face of dynamic changes, the association witnessed influx of young professionals and agencies into its fold.
“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,” Babaeko stressed.
The conference Chairman, Mr Udeme Ufot, said that the association had achieved remarkable success in its endeavours.
“However, AAAN must look inward to see the reforms that are necessary to have a more vibrant association that is constituted by members who are well-educated, better trained and equipped.
“This will enable them to explore the vast benefits of technology for development, and in so doing, contribute their quota to national development through the strength of the narrative,” Ufot said. (NAN)