Preceding the year 2003, Nigeria witnessed the existence of two notable marketing entities, NIMARK and CIMN, which eventually evolved into the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN). These precursor bodies operated with individual vigour and competitiveness within the marketing realm, each propelled by distinct yet lucid visions and missions set forth by their founders.
During the 1970s, a notable surge occurred in the number of Nigerian students undertaking the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) UK Diploma Examination. However, this promising trend was dampened by the unfavorable foreign exchange rates prevalent at the time, posing significant challenges for many aspiring students. Recognizing the need to address these challenges and bolster the professional development of marketing professionals, the UK government communicated with its Nigerian counterpart, advocating for the establishment of a dedicated Marketing Professional body.
This proactive measure aimed to support Nigerian students encountering obstacles related to foreign exchange rates while pursuing their CIM UK Diploma Examination. Against the backdrop of Nigeria’s oil boom during the late 1960s and 1970s, concerns regarding the adequacy of trained and competent managers to oversee the nation’s burgeoning commercial and industrial enterprises became increasingly pronounced. This sentiment was echoed by both the military government of the era and the general public, highlighting a perceived deficit in managerial expertise essential for effective enterprise management. In response to the identified need for professional management bodies to address the management challenges facing Nigeria, the Federal government, through the Nigerian Council for Management and Development, took decisive action. Extensive surveys were conducted to assess the prevailing issues, culminating in the enactment of Degree 51 of 1976. This degree empowered the Nigeria Council for Management and Development, operating under its operational arm, the Centre for Management and Development (CMD), to establish specialized management bodies.
These bodies were tasked with addressing the diverse management issues afflicting the country’s economic landscape. Among the management bodies established were the Institute of Management Consultants of Nigeria, the National Association of Management Consultants, the Nigeria Association of Small-Scale Industry, the Nigeria Association of School Management Education Training, the Nigeria Association of Corporate Planners, and the Nigeria Marketing Association. It’s noteworthy that prior to this initiative, Nigeria had three operational marketing bodies, each purporting to represent marketers nationwide. These were the Institute of Marketing Nigeria, headquartered in Lagos, the Nigerian Marketing Association, also based in Lagos and led by Mr. Fidelis Ikpong, and the Institute of Marketing of Nigeria, situated in Enugu and headed by Dr. J.O. Onah, who later attained the status of Professor. CMD, through Decree 15 of 1976, under the leadership of Dr. Udo Udo-Aka as the acting Director General, amalgamated these three marketing bodies into a unified entity known as the Nigerian Marketing Association (NMA). This consolidation aimed to streamline efforts and enhance the effectiveness of the marketing sector in addressing the country’s management challenges.
Following its establishment in 1976, the Nigerian Marketing Association (NMA) embarked on a journey to solidify its presence and operations within the marketing landscape of Nigeria. Initially, the association received support from Lever Brothers Nigeria Plc, which generously provided office space within its premises at Dockyard Road Apapa. This gesture was facilitated under the leadership of Chief Joseph Adediran, who served as the first African Marketing Director of Lever Brothers Nigeria. Chief Adediran’s notable contributions extended beyond his corporate role, as he also assumed the presidency of the Institute from 1983 to 1986. As the NMA continued to grow, it established its first official Secretariat at No. 25 Eric Moore Close, securing the space through the assistance of NIMARK’S Corporate Organizations.
This development marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the marketing body, providing a dedicated hub for its administrative and operational functions. In 1986, a pivotal moment occurred when the association transitioned into the Nigerian Institute of Marketing (NIMARK), signifying a new phase in its organizational identity and objectives. This transformation was formalized through incorporation on March 12th, 1986, reflecting the institute’s commitment to advancing marketing professionalism in Nigeria. The journey towards achieving Charter status began in 1991, as NIMARK, in collaboration with the Centre for Management Development (CMD), expressed its aspiration to attain recognition as a Chartered Institute.
To this end, a comprehensive Draft Decree was submitted, outlining the Institute’s organizational structure, training programs, and the desired international standing. The proposed enabling Decree, titled “Chartered Institute of Marketing, Nigeria,” aimed to elevate NIMARK’s status and enhance its credibility on both national and global platforms. However, the pursuit of Charter status was not without challenges, as rival interests emerged from professionals across various disciplines, leading to the establishment of the Certified Institute of Marketing (CIMN). This competing entity, supported by members affiliated with CIMN London, sought recognition as the “Certified Institute of Marketing of Nigeria.” Their advocacy efforts gained momentum, with proposed legislation nearly passing into law during the Abacha regime. CIMN’s strategic focus on training initiatives, particularly in polytechnics, garnered support from lecturers and students alike.
This approach capitalized on the prevalence of marketing education in polytechnics, contrasting with the relatively limited exposure to marketing within university business administration programs. Consequently, CIMN attracted a significant following among polytechnic educators, while NIMARK maintained a stronghold among corporate professionals and selected university faculty, particularly those with professorial distinctions. Both the NIMARK bill and the CIMN bill underwent rigorous legislative scrutiny, advancing through multiple readings in the legislative process. However, as the bills approached the final stages before enactment, concerns arose regarding the potential approval of two separate marketing institutes by the House of Representatives.
To address these concerns and ensure a unified approach to regulating the marketing profession, the government intervened by convening a meeting between the leadership of NIMARK and CIMN in Abuja. Through this dialogue, efforts were made to harmonize the contents of the two bills, reconciling any differences and presenting a unified framework for legislative approval. Ultimately, in 2003, the culmination of these efforts led to the signing into law of a bill that merged NIMARK and CIMN into a single regulatory body, thereby establishing the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN). This landmark legislation, known as the NIMN Act 25 of 2003, aimed to consolidate the achievements of the previous marketing bodies under a singular regulatory authority.
With the signing of the NIMN Act into law by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, the transition to harmonize the two bodies officially commenced. The establishment of NIMN heralded a new era in the marketing landscape of Nigeria, providing a unified platform for the regulation and advancement of marketing professionalism in the country. Despite the legislative consolidation of NIMARK and CIMN into the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) in 2003, the process of integration faced challenges, leading to continued separate operations of the two factions. Each maintained its own leadership structure, with distinct Presidents, Registrars, Council members, and secretariats, prolonging the division within the marketing profession.
Despite the persistent challenges, a breakthrough occurred when Chief Silva Emoekpere, President of NIMARK, and Mr. Ganiyu Adesegun Koledoye, President of CIMN, agreed to a compromise solution. Under this arrangement, Chief Lugard Ehi Aimiuwu assumed the presidency of the unified Institute, while Chief Silva Emoekpere and Mr. Ganiyu Adesegun Koledoye were appointed as the first and second Vice-Presidents, respectively. This compromise marked a significant step towards resolving the longstanding differences between the two factions.
At an extraordinary general meeting held at the Muson Centre, Onikan-Lagos on Friday, August 29th, 2008, Chief Silva Emoekpere and Mr. Ganiyu Adesegun Koledoye informed members of their decision to elect Council members by consensus. Additionally, they announced that consensus had been reached on the appointment of principal officers, further solidifying the reconciliation efforts. The late transformation strategist assumed the Presidency and Chairmanship of the NIMN Governing Council in 2008, following the successful conclusion of the reconciliation process.
His leadership brought renewed vigor and prestige to the Institute, leading to noticeable improvements in sales and earnings. Furthermore, the Institute experienced a resurgence in membership, with both new members and previously inactive members reengaging with the organization. This period marked a significant turning point for NIMN, as it emerged stronger and more united than ever before. Despite the persistent challenges, the process of integration encountered further hurdles when the CIMN faction opted to maintain a separate office from NIMARK. This decision complicated efforts to achieve a fully unified organizational structure.
However, the resolve to merge the two factions remained steadfast, driven by a shared vision of a stronger, more cohesive institute. To navigate through these complexities, a 12- man committee was established, with Dr. Ify Uraih serving as chairperson. The committee comprised equal representation from both NIMARK and CIMN, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and collaboration.
Over the course of a year, the committee engaged in extensive deliberations, working tirelessly to address differences and forge a path towards unity. Eventually, consensus was reached on the decision to merge the two bodies. Acomprehensive plan was developed, outlining the process for council members from both factions to merge, with a mutual agreement to resign after one year. This strategic approach laid the groundwork for fresh elections and signaled a new chapter in the institute’s history. The National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) underwent a period of remarkable growth and recognition, solidifying its position as a leading institution within the marketing landscape. Staff members were highly motivated, contributing to the institute’s enhanced visibility and competitiveness both nationally and globally. This upward trajectory faced a significant juncture in 2013 with the resignation of Chief Lugard.
Following his departure, elections were conducted, culminating in the appointment of Mr. Ganiyu Adesegun Koledoye as the president of the newly unified NIMN. His election marked a pivotal moment in the institute’s journey towards unity and cohesion within the Nigerian marketing profession. During Mr. Koledoye’s tenure from 2013 to 2016, notable strides were made, including the relocation of the NIMN office from Ikorodu Road, Lagos, to the Centre for Management Development in Magodo, Lagos.
This strategic move aimed to optimize operational efficiency and accessibility, reflecting a commitment to progressive change. In November 2016, Mr. Tony Agenmonmen assumed the presidency, following his election at the AGM/Election held at Premier Hotel, Ibadan. His leadership ushered in a period of continuity and innovation, marked by a focus on advancing the institute’s objectives and initiatives. Mr. Agenmonmen’s reelection for a second term at the institute’s 2019 AGM in Port-Harcourt underscored the confidence and support of the institute’s members in his leadership. Mr. Tony Agenmonmen’s tenure paved the way for Mr. Idorenyen Enang to assume the presidency in 2021, continuing the legacy of excellence and forward thinking leadership within NIMN. As the current President, Mr. Enang is poised to build upon the achievements of his predecessors and lead the institute towards sustained growth and impact in the dynamic field of marketing in Nigeria.
