Stakeholders in the advertising industry in Oyo State have called for strengthened self-regulation and ethical practices to enhance professionalism and public trust. This was the outcome of a courtesy visit by the Advertising Practitioners Association, Oyo State Chapter (APAOC) to the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Ibadan Zonal Office.
Delegation Seeks Enhanced Collaboration
The delegation, led by ARCON-registered practitioners including Dr. Cyril Olajide, Mr. Abimbola Adebayo, Dr. Charles Alade, Asiwaju Ezra Okebisi, and Ahonkhai Peter, was received by the Zonal Head, Mrs. Hadiza Bello. They sought improved collaboration to boost professionalism, compliance, and regulatory enforcement in the state's advertising sector.
Self-Regulation as a Tool for Ethical Compliance
Members of APAOC, drawn from various industry segments, emphasized that self-regulation would curb unprofessional practices and strengthen public confidence in advertising content and operations. They called for a more structured and unified professional body in Oyo State to promote ethical standards, adherence to ARCON guidelines, and sustainable industry growth.
The stakeholders also highlighted challenges affecting outdoor advertising, digital marketing, media placement, and related services. They urged regulatory authorities to improve monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to address these issues effectively.
Capacity Building and Sensitisation Efforts
The practitioners further urged ARCON to intensify sensitisation programs and capacity-building initiatives to support practitioners and guide emerging professionals. They stressed the need for training workshops and stakeholder engagements, particularly for young professionals and students entering the field.
ARCON Welcomes Initiative
Responding, Mrs. Hadiza Bello welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and essential for strengthening regulatory compliance and professionalism. She emphasized the importance of self-regulation, adherence to ARCON guidelines, and timely payment of statutory fees. Bello reiterated ARCON's commitment to ensuring ethical compliance, regulatory enforcement, and orderly development of the advertising sector in Oyo State and across Nigeria.
The association pledged continued collaboration with ARCON to build a more structured, disciplined, and professionally driven advertising ecosystem in the state.
