The Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN) has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving a structured and disciplined out-of-home (OOH) advertising industry through the Chartered OOH Media Bill, describing it as a crucial step for sustainable growth and stakeholder confidence.
In an exclusive interview with The Brand Colossus, OAAN President Mr. Sola Akinsiku emphasized that the bill is not just necessary but fundamental to restoring order and ensuring professionalism within the sector.
“The charter bill is in the best interest of all stakeholders,” Akinsiku stated. “Right now, the industry is plagued by indiscipline and disorder because there is no clear authority regulating who can erect structures. ARCON has its role, but its mandate is limited to controlling advertising messages, not structures.”
Akinsiku explained that the lack of a specific regulatory framework has led to uncontrolled practices, conflicting interests, and structural chaos in the OOH sector.
“We are not at loggerheads with ARCON. The law creating ARCON is clear, but it cannot extend to structural regulation. The charter we are pursuing will introduce strict provisions, ensuring that only qualified professionals can erect and manage advertising structures,” he said.
The bill will also introduce disciplinary measures for non-compliance, fostering a culture of responsibility and ethical standards across the industry.
“This is in the overall interest of all stakeholders and the national economy,” Akinsiku added.
Highlighting the progress made, the OAAN President noted that the Chartered OOH Media Bill has already scaled the first and second readings in the National Assembly, as well as the public hearing stage.
“We are confident that in a few months, we will be celebrating the passage of this landmark bill,” Akinsiku declared.
He further stated that the bill is a key agenda for his administration, now in its second year, as the association reviews achievements, challenges, and the future roadmap for Nigeria’s OOH industry.
“This is the time to take stock, address the gaps, and agree on the way forward for a more structured and future-ready OOH ecosystem,” he concluded.
The successful passage of the bill is expected to usher in a new era of order, professionalism, and growth in Nigeria’s outdoor advertising sector, aligning it with global best practices.
