Following three highly successful editions, the National Advertising Conference (NAC) is set to deliver its most exciting and transformative event with the 4th edition. As the largest gathering of advertising professionals and stakeholders in Nigeria, the Conference promises to ignite thought-provoking discussions that could shape the future of the industry.
Scheduled from November 13th to 15th at the Abuja Continental Hotel, this year’s theme, “Navigating the Shifts: Technology, Culture, and New Business Models,” will draw top industry leaders and key government figures. The event aims to strengthen public-private partnerships and drive innovation within the advertising sector, addressing critical issues that affect both the industry and the wider business landscape.
At a press conference held today at Le’ola Hotel, Ikeja, Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, Director General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), emphasized that the 2024 National Advertising Conference has been meticulously planned to address the industry’s current challenges. He highlighted the importance of collective effort in driving growth within the sector.
“This is an industry event, and because of that, we have all the sectoral groups present, showcasing our commitment to collaboration,” Fadolapo stated. “We are working together to ensure the 2024 National Advertising Conference is a resounding success, one that fosters meaningful partnerships and innovations for the industry’s future.”
The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Tunji Adeyinka, highlighted the unique challenges facing the advertising industry ahead of the 2024 NAC. He noted that both the global and Nigerian economies are navigating difficult times, with advertisers grappling with rising business costs and declining consumer purchasing power.
“A lot of our clients are facing significant headwinds, including the high cost of doing business and reduced consumer spending. This requires us to rethink how we support the businesses we work for, ensuring we deliver value in more innovative ways,” Adeyinka explained.
He further stressed the need for the industry to engage in critical discussions, particularly in light of the naira’s devaluation, which has effectively reduced the overall market size. “Our growth as an industry is directly tied to the success of the businesses we serve. We need to have serious conversations about how to navigate these realities and adapt to sustain growth.”
The 2024 National Advertising Conference kicks off at 6 PM with a Fireside Chat, featuring Dr. John Momoh, Chairman of Channels Media Group. Known for bridging past and present industry trends, he will set the stage for deeper discussions over the three-day event.
On November 14th, the Conference will begin with an opening session followed by a business session focusing on the Nigerian economy. Dr. Tayo Aduloju, CEO of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), will provide insights into the current economic outlook and the challenges ahead.
A key topic of discussion will be industry consolidation, with Mr. Seni Adetu, Group CEO of First Primus West Africa, offering his expertise on the subject. A CMO forum will also be held, where top executives such as Adebola Williams, Marketing Director at Promasidor, will discuss the realities and challenges faced at the C-level.
Other prominent speakers include Victor Afolabi, GMD of GDM Group, and Funke Adekola, COO of Dentsu Creative, who will address the impact of generative AI on advertising with the session “Myths vs. Reality.” The influence of youth culture on marketing and emerging trends will also be key themes, with a total of eight plenary sessions scheduled.
The Conference will also dive into the evolving landscape of taxation within the advertising industry, as well as the business of publishing. Thought leadership and networking opportunities will run throughout the event, providing a platform for industry stakeholders to collaborate and share insights.
Sectoral heads, including Mr. Lanre Adisa, President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) Mrs. Tolulope Medebem, President of the Experiential Marketers Association of Nigeria, (EXMAN), Dr. Omoh Abunene, Vice President of the Out-of-Home Association of Nigeria, (OAAN), Mrs. Brenda Nwagwu, Vice President of the Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria, (MIPAN), and Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, the Executive Secretary of Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, (BON) have all expressed their enthusiasm for the 2024 NAC, urging members and stakeholders to attend this transformative event.
