As the curtains draw close on the four-year tenure of Dr. Femi Adelusi, President of the Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIPAN), and Mr. Steve Babaeko, President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), it is imperative to reflect on their achievements and contributions to the advertising ecosystem.
Femi Adelusi: A Visionary Leader
Adelusi, the Group Managing Director of BrandEye Media/ Digibreed assumed the mantle of leadership at MIPAN with a clear vision articulated under the acronym THINC: Technology, Human capital development, Industry thought leadership, and Inclusiveness and collaboration. His tenure emphasized adapting to a rapidly-changing consumer and marketing landscape amidst the challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Under his leadership, MIPAN witnessed significant strides in various areas. Adelusi’s administration focused on leveraging technology, data, and innovation to drive effective client solutions. Notably, efforts were made to enhance audience measurement systems and deploy scientific planning tools, reflecting a commitment to industry excellence.
Moreover, Adelusi championed inclusivity and collaboration, encouraging digital agencies to join forces in building a robust association. He emphasized gender equality and equal opportunity, paving the way for a more diverse and resilient industry ecosystem.
In his presidency acceptance speech, Adelusi stated that, “We must face the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly-changing consumer and marketing landscape by finding new insights and pivot continuously to leverage new opportunities.” Throughout his current four years tenure, Adelusi remained committed to leveraging technology, data, and innovation to drive effective client solutions. He emphasized, “We will break all barriers, both real and imagined, that limit the optimal self, drive gender equality and equal opportunity at the work environment.”
Under his guidance, MIPAN witnessed notable progress, including advancements in audience measurement systems and scientific planning tools. Adelusi’s administration prioritized inclusivity and collaboration, striving to unite digital agencies and promote gender equality within the industry. Despite challenges such as funding models and unprofessional practices, Adelusi’s legacy remains one of innovation and resilience.
Steve Babaeko: A Trailblazer in Advertising
Babaeko, the CEO of X3M Ideas, emerged as a transformative figure in the advertising landscape. His leadership brought about a new era of collaboration and unity under the theme “Advancing Together.” Reflecting on his leadership journey, Babaeko emphasized, “The theme of my campaign was ‘Advancing Together.’ The association is an honorable body, and I did contest for an honorable position.”
As a young President, Babaeko’s goals centered on inclusivity, empowerment, and repositioning the industry for the digital age. He emphasized the importance of empowering women within the association and promoting diversity across agency leadership.
Babaeko’s administration prioritized collaboration with allied associations, recognizing the interconnectedness of industry stakeholders. He stated, “All of those ‘solos’ we used to run should be over. Let us all come to the table and have a seat at the table so we can discuss all the difficulties we are faced with.” By forging dialogue and partnership, he sought to address challenges that were brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and drive collective growth.
Furthermore, Babaeko’s advocacy for the ARCON bill reflected his commitment to restoring decorum and sanity to the advertising industry. By supporting regulatory reforms, he aimed to elevate industry standards and ensure a conducive environment for growth and professionalism.
In his past interview, evaluating his tenure, Babaeko highlighted the need for continuity and succession planning, emphasizing the importance of preparing future leaders to sustain the association’s growth trajectory.
As Babaeko concludes his tenure, his legacy underscores the importance of continuity and succession planning. He expressed confidence in the association’s future, stating, “This is time to start planning for succession to make sure that the next generation of leaders that take over from us will be prepared to even do better than we have done.” Babaeko’s tenure leaves a lasting impact, characterized by a commitment to unity, progress, and a brighter future for the advertising industry in Nigeria.
As Femi Adelusi and Steve Babaeko conclude their respective tenures, their legacies underscore the transformative power of visionary leadership and collective action. Through their strategic initiatives and advocacy efforts, they have advanced the Nigerian media and advertising industries, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration. As new leaders prepare to take the helm, they inherit a foundation built on resilience, adaptability, and a shared vision for a thriving industry ecosystem
