West Africa Association of Customer Service Professionals (WAACSP) has announced the upgrade of its Virtual Assistant Fundamentals program to a full professional certification.

According to the Head of Administration, WAACSP, Christian Anozie, the development marks a significant milestone in the organization’s commitment to providing high-quality education and training in customer service.

The programme focuses on practical skills development, ensuring that participants are equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel as virtual assistants.

The certification covers various tools, applications, and software used in virtual assistance, enabling participants to stay up-to-date with industry trends.

The programme emphasized best practices for effective virtual assistance, including communication, time management, and problem-solving skills.

WAACSP’s decision to upgrade the Virtual Assistant programme to a professional certification demonstrates its dedication to excellence in customer service education.

The organization has a proven track record of delivering globally recognized certifications, with over 5,000 professionals certified since 2016.

The Professional Certification in Virtual Assistant will provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to build sustainable careers in customer service.

By obtaining this certification, professionals can enhance their career prospects and contribute to the growth and development of their organizations.

The city of Lagos recently played host to a gathering of leading voices in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability at the inaugural edition of the MediaConsortium CSR Impacts and Excellence Conference and Awards.

Held at the prestigious Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Alausa, Ikeja, the event convened industry leaders, policy makers, sustainability advocates, and business professionals to explore actionable pathways for CSR-driven organizational growth and societal impact.

Themed “Driving a Sustainable Future: Leveraging CSR for Organisational Growth,” the conference provided a platform for in-depth discussions on how companies can embed CSR into their core strategies and celebrate businesses making outstanding contributions to social and environmental sustainability.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Ekuma Eze, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Rite Foods, Olukemi Ogunsankin emphasized the urgency for businesses to embrace sustainability. “As people become more environmentally concerned, businesses must adapt to stay relevant and responsible,” she said. “Companies that prioritize sustainability and planet stewardship not only help the environment but also enhance their brand image and attract more customers.”

She further highlighted that sustainable practices—such as investing in renewable energy and organic farming—can translate into long-term cost savings and increased profitability.

Dr. Femi Idowu-Adegoke, Special Adviser on One Health to the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, and President of the Lagos Recyclers Association, also addressed attendees. He noted that CSR in Nigeria must evolve beyond charity and become a central business strategy. “In Nigeria, where socio-economic and environmental issues persist, businesses that strategically integrate CSR into their operations can achieve competitive advantage, stakeholder trust, and long-term profitability,” he remarked.

Dr. Idowu-Adegoke stressed that while the government continues to address national challenges, the private sector’s strategic involvement through CSR is indispensable. He encouraged organizations to go beyond token acts and embrace structured, impact-driven CSR initiatives.

A vibrant panel discussion moderated by Clara Okoro, immediate past Chairman of the Brands Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), explored critical questions around effective CSR implementation, challenges faced by companies, and opportunities for deeper impact.

In his welcome address, Adetunji Faleye, Co-Publisher of MediaConsortium Magazine and one of the event conveners, set the tone for the day:
“It is with great pleasure and profound gratitude that I welcome you all to the MediaConsortium CSR Impacts and Excellence Conference 2025,” he said. “Corporate Social Responsibility is no longer just a buzzword; it is a fundamental commitment that forward-thinking organizations must embrace to create lasting impact.”

The event culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing organizations that have demonstrated excellence in CSR:

PZ Wilmar – Best CSR Initiative in Palm Oil Production

Iron Resources Limited – Sustainable Business Award

Capacious Foods – Outstanding CSR Initiative in Organic Farming

Simba Group – Outstanding CSR Initiative in Renewable Energy

Sifax Group – Outstanding CSR Initiative in Community Development

The conference was a resounding success, reinforcing the need for intentional CSR strategies that not only benefit businesses but also contribute meaningfully to society and the environment. Attendees left inspired to innovate, collaborate, and lead with impact.

The Industry Newspaper, a leading brand marketing publication in West Africa and organisers of the Industry Summit/Awards, has announced the panel of judges for the sixth edition of the Awards in Lagos.

To chair the 6th edition of the most sought-after and credible reward platform within the brand marketing ecosystem in West Africa is the renowned broadcast journalist and business editor of TVC News, Mr. Tolulope Ogunjobi.

Other members of the panel include; Raheem Akingbolu, senior correspondent at Thisday Newspaper, Afolabi Idowu, Marketing Correspondent at The Nation, Melvin Udosen, Publisher of Brandessence Magazine, Adedayo Odulaja, Secretary of Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria and Daniel Obi, Media Business Editor, Businessday Newspaper/Chairman BJAN.

In a statement made available to the media, the organisers of the event stated that the shortlist of the nominees, which was compiled by the editors of The Industry Newspaper was sent to the jury for careful evaluation based on individual’s antecedent and brands innovative approach in 2024.

The Industry Awards which is categorized into Champions, pathfinders, practitioners, future leaders, brands/products and service categories has distinguished award such as- Governor of the Year, CEO of the Year, Doyen of Advertising in Africa, Most Effective Public Communication, Business Personality, Green Energy Champion, Young Advertising Person in Africa and Women in Advertising among others.

Goddie Ofose, Publisher of The Industry Newspaper and convener of The Industry Summit/Awards has expressed his thoughts on Tolulope Ogunjobi’s credibility as chair of the jury. “This jury led by Mr. Ogunjobi is very motivated to select the best and the winners would be very deserved, “he said.

“Ogunjobi’s experience and expertise in the industry alongside other members of the jury suggest that they would likely emphasize the importance of credibility, accuracy, and fairness”, Ofose said.

Tolulope Ogunjobi’s background and credentials, particularly as Chairman Industry Recognition Awards Committee, suggest that he possesses the necessary credibility to lead a jury effectively.

The award coincides with the 2025 Industry summit themed “theme: “Understanding Changing Consumer Preferences in Troubled FMCG’s Space”.

This year’s programme is scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2025 for lecture and Saturday, May 3, 2025 for dinner and awards. The keynote speaker is Lampe Omoyele, managing director of Nitro 121 marketing company while the special guest of honour is the senior special assistant to Nigerian president on digital media and engagement, O’tega Ogra.

To feature on the panel of discussants are Mr. Ayo Awosika, GM, Commercial, UAC Foods, Mr. Remi Akanda, Director, Marketing & Corporate Communications, LAPO Microfinance Bank, Mr. Adeola Amosun – Group Media Manager, Tolaram, Mr. Gbemileke Lawal, Marketing Manager, Grand Oak Limited, and Ms. Oluseun Mudashiru, Brand Manager- Big Bull Rice, TGI Group.
Others are Mrs. Roseline Abaraonye, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), N.N. Fems Group, and Mrs. Ifeoluwa Esther Obafemi, Head, Digital, Media & Insights (Digital Transformation), Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), FrieslandCampina WAMCO while Ms. Gift Uche-Ewule, Assistant Brand Manager, Indomie will the moderate the session.