AAAN inducts eight advertising agencies as associate members

The Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) says eight new agencies have been inducted as associate members into the group.

AAAN inducted the members at its 52nd annual general meeting (AGM) and congress.

According to a statement on Sunday, during the event, AAAN held its business session, “of which a key development was the induction of eight new agencies as associate members”.

“The new entrants, spanning traditional, experiential, and digital marketing, were welcomed as part of the association’s continued expansion,” the statement reads.

According to the group, a Gala Night, held on Saturday, spotlighted emerging talent and honoured vital contributions within the industry, culminating in a three-day gathering that featured business deliberations, knowledge exchange, and community building.

The statement noted that one of the highlights of the event was the presentation of the ‘Rising Star Award’ to five young professionals nominated from leading agencies.

Among those recognised, AAAN said, were Ayoade Omolola of X3M Ideas, Chidera Okpala of SO&U, and Faruq Alimi of Noah’s Ark.

Also awarded were Deborah Folaranmi of Wunderman Thompson and Leah Afolabi of Leo Burnett, who were acknowledged for their creativity, commitment, and potential to shape the industry’s future.

“The mood turned solemn during a posthumous tribute to the late Suleman Omone-Ogie Momoh, who was honoured for his outstanding service and leadership,” the statement further reads.

“A moment of silence was observed by members of the association as they reflected on his legacy and contributions to the sector.

“The AGM began on Thursday with a fireside chat with Lekan Fadolapo, director-general of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON).”

The group noted that there were keynote addresses on Friday by Idowu Akinde, managing director of Impact Hub Lagos and Bolanle Osotule, general manager and head of brand marketing and advertising at Airtel Nigeria.

The day also included panel discussions that explored trends in innovation, governance, and the evolving landscape of marketing communications.

In his closing remarks, Lanre Adisa, AAAN president, described the congress as “a time of reflection, renewal, and resolve”.

He noted that the sessions had reinforced the association’s commitment to fostering a forward-looking, inclusive, and self-aware industry.

Adisa commended the participation of young professionals and emphasised the importance of continuing conversations around creativity, regulation and agency growth.