The Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIPAN) convened its 2023 President’s Dinner, a momentous occasion marked by a compelling call for enhanced synergy among industry stakeholders. The resounding message emphasized the imperative for collaborative efforts to foster improved synergy, thereby creating a formidable advantage to bolster growth and collectively address industry challenges. Against the backdrop of glitz and glamour, industry luminaries gathered at the prestigious Radisson Blu Hotel in Lagos to celebrate a fruitful year and gear up for the challenges and opportunities of 2024.
During the event, Femi Adelusi, President of MIPAN, delivered a welcoming address that underscored the immense impact of the media industry on national economic development. Adelusi stressed the critical importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including advertisers, agencies, platform owners, media houses, content producers, and regulators at both federal and local levels.
Adelusi expressed concern about the current division within the industry, asserting the need for a paradigm shift towards increased synergy to drive desired growth. He urged all involved parties, including clients, agencies, content developers, media houses, and regulatory bodies, to align their efforts around three key areas which are; growing brands and companies across sectors, influencing national economic development, and upholding consumer protection and cultural values.
In emphasizing the shared values and culture within the advertising and marketing profession, Adelusi stressed the importance of ethical principles. He called for processes focused on acceleration and the ease of doing business, leveraging technologies, and ensuring sustainability.
Drawing from his personal entrepreneurial journey in establishing a bakery, Adelusi highlighted the challenges faced by clients, including tax hurdles, rising material costs, and unforeseen construction dilemmas. He emphasized the need for agencies and clients to merge strengths in addressing such challenges collaboratively.
“Navigating the labyrinth of regulations and economic tides isn’t a solo expedition; it’s a collaborative odyssey. Open communication stands as the compass guiding us through turbulent seas.
As we forge ahead, let’s remember that the heart of our success lies in standing together, embracing these principles, and fostering an unbreakable bond between agencies and clients. Together, we pave the way for a thriving and resilient future” he said.
Adelusi addressed esteemed clients, urging them not to overlook the pivotal role of agencies in partnership. He emphasized the symbiotic relationship between clients and agencies, highlighting the need for collaboration to achieve desired business results. The fusion of agency acumen, diverse experience, and expertise, according to Adelusi, is vital to meeting advertisers’ aspirations and imprinting brands into the fabric of consumers’ consciousness.
Aimed at supporting work-life balance, the association took a proactive step by inviting Mavi Sokia Isibor (MSI), a Fellow of the Institute of Directors (F.IoD) and a distinguished professional (Fpmc), to share insights as the guest speaker. The focus of her discourse centered on the crucial aspect of maintaining a work-life balance in the contemporary professional landscape.
Ms. Isibor emphasized the significance of balancing life commitments, even in the face of demanding work responsibilities. She underscored the importance of prioritizing a healthy lifestyle and offered practical advice on achieving equilibrium.
In her address, Mrs. Isibor encouraged individuals to prioritize maintaining a healthy life by incorporating regular exercise into their routines. She stressed the vital role of physical activity in promoting overall well-being, both physically and mentally.
Networking, according to Mrs. Isibor, is another key component of achieving work-life balance. She highlighted the value of building and sustaining professional relationships, suggesting that forming connections with others can contribute positively to both personal and career growth.
Keeping in touch with family was identified as a crucial element of work-life balance by Mrs. Isibor. She stressed the importance of maintaining strong connections with family members, recognizing the role of familial bonds in providing emotional support and stability.
Finally, Mrs. Isibor reinforced the idea that individuals can pursue financial success while still maintaining a balanced life. She urged the audience to strike a harmonious blend between work and personal life, ensuring that the pursuit of professional goals does not come at the expense of one’s well-being and relationships.
The highpoint of the event was marked by the prestigious presentation of awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in the media industry. The recipients of these accolades represent excellence and noteworthy contributions in their respective categories: They are the Outstanding Media Organization of the Year award which was bagged by DSTV. This award acknowledges DSTV for its exceptional contributions and impact as a leading media organization. DSTV’s commitment to excellence in providing quality content and services has earned them this esteemed recognition. MediaReachOMD bagged the Agency of the Year having stood out as the top-performing agency this year. This award acknowledges the agency’s outstanding performance, innovative strategies, and noteworthy contributions to the media landscape.
Ronan Redmond, CEO TVC, clinched the prestigious Outstanding Media Personality Award. This recognition underscores his significant influence, leadership, and positive impact within the media industry.
To commemorate his enduring contributions and lasting impact on MIPAN, Legacy Award (Posthumous) was given to Tolulope Ogunkoya, ex-President MIPAN 2008-2015.
In addition to the individual and organizational awards, Certificate of Recognition was bestowed upon several noteworthy entities which include; South African Tourism, Netflix, KC Gaming, Mondelez International, Coca-Cola and Eat’n’Go.
The distinguished guest list at the MIPAN’s 2023 President’s Dinner featured notable figures and industry leaders, contributing to the event’s significance. Among the attendees were Alh. Garba Bello Kankarofi, Former Registrar & CEO of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Mr. George Thorpe, Managing Partner of Market Space and a MIPAN’s patron, Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, Director General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), offering regulatory insights and updates on the industry landscape, Prince Fatiu Adegbola Akiolu, Managing Director of the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA), and Mrs. Tolulope Medebem, among several others
This diverse assembly of individuals underscored the broad representation of the media and advertising industry at the event, providing a platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. The collective presence of these influential figures and professionals not only added prestige to the occasion but also enriched the discussions and interactions, reflecting the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to advancing the media and advertising landscape in Nigeria.
