As preparations intensify for the maiden edition of the Brand Handlers Summit 2025, Marketing Space magazine has unveiled some of Nigeria’s brightest minds in marketing, branding, and communications, who will come together to chart a path forward in advancing brand and marketing excellence in Nigeria.

The event, themed “Advancing Nigeria’s Marketing Ecosystem to Drive Brand Growth,” is scheduled to hold at the prestigious Regency Hall, Alausa, Lagos.

This year’s summit, powered by Marketing Space, is designed to celebrate the visionaries behind Nigeria’s most impactful brands and to explore how organisations can elevate their strategic marketing efforts amid a rapidly evolving consumer landscape. With a thoughtfully curated lineup of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, the summit promises to serve as a pivotal moment of reflection and strategy for marketing professionals across various sectors.

According to Lukman Ishau, Publisher of Marketing Space and Convener of the Brand Handlers Summit, “The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards is more than just an event, it is a platform for discourse and a stage for recognising those who shape perception, influence consumer choice, and build enduring brands. We are intentional about creating a space where top-level executives and brand custodians can share insights and collaboratively redefine the future of marketing in Nigeria.”

The event will be chaired by Udeme Ufot, MFR, Group CEO of SO&U Limited, while the keynote address will be delivered by Stephen Onaivi, Managing Director of mediaReach OMD, and renowned media executive Clara Okoro, COO of BrandWorld Media, will moderate the panel session.

The panel will feature strategic insights from respected industry leaders, including Kayode Olagesin, Managing Director of Towncriers Limited; Kayode Ebatamehi, Managing Director of Bluebird Communications; Victoria Uwadoka, Head of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at Nestlé Nigeria; and Roseline Abaraonye, Marketing Director of Imperio Nigeria Ltd. Together, they will examine the roles of leadership, storytelling, and technology in shaping marketing outcomes for brands operating in Nigeria’s competitive landscape.

Speaking further on the summit’s goals, Micheal Efengbe, Project Coordinator of the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards, remarked, “We have designed this summit to be a high-level conversation where marketing leaders and decision-makers can come together to share real solutions, not just ideas. It’s about bridging knowledge gaps, sparking collaboration, and unlocking new growth opportunities for brands.”

Beyond the engaging sessions, the summit will also serve as a platform to honor individuals and institutions whose contributions continue to elevate Nigeria’s marketing industry, setting benchmarks for professionalism, creativity, and impact.

The event will kick off at 3:00 PM at Regency Hall, 1 Otunba Jobi-Fele Way, CBD, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos. For participation or sponsorship inquiries, interested stakeholders are encouraged to contact 07030909516 or 08073102434.

Join the conversation online using the hashtags #BrandHandlers2025, #MarketingSpace, and #BrandExcellence, and be part of a defining moment in Nigeria’s marketing evolution.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Winifred Bosa

L–R: Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo; Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; and Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo, at the commissioning of the restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, refurbished in collaboration with IHS Nigeria, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

The Federal Government has commissioned the fully refurbished and restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive digital growth, youth empowerment, and strong private sector collaboration. The facility, which suffered significant damage during the August 2024 protests, has now been fully restored through a generous intervention by IHS Nigeria.

The commissioning ceremony, which took place on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, was led by the President of Nigeria, ably represented by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani. The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Kano State (representing the Governor) Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo; the Emir of Kano, represented by His Highness, Jarman Kano, Amb. Ahmed Umar OON; the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission Dr Aminu Maida; the Minister of State for Youth Development; representatives from IHS Nigeria; and other senior government officials.

Delivering his opening remarks, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the strategic importance of the park and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to enabling Nigeria’s digital future.

“The recommissioning of the NCC Digital Industrial Park in Kano is a landmark moment in our journey to accelerate ICT innovation and empower the next generation of digital pioneers. This facility will serve as a catalyst for digital inclusion, economic transformation, and youth empowerment not just in Kano, but across the entire Northwest region. We remain committed to creating a thriving digital ecosystem where innovation can flourish and no one is left behind in Nigeria’s digital revolution.” He said.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Governor of Kano State, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, reaffirmed the state’s digital ambition and expressed deep appreciation for the partnership that made the park’s restoration possible.

“This commissioning marks more than the unveiling of a refurbished structure, it represents Kano’s bold vision to lead Northern Nigeria’s digital transformation. “We are grateful to IHS Nigeria for their swift response and unwavering support following the vandalization of this facility. Their commitment goes beyond corporate responsibility, it reflects a shared vision for a digitally inclusive Nigeria. He said

Also speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo, who represented the CEO of IHS Nigeria, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital future.

“Our decision to sponsor the refurbishment of the Kano Digital Park is rooted in our commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital economy and empowering young Nigerians with the skills to thrive in the digital age,” he said.

“This partnership with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy is a clear demonstration of the power of public-private collaboration in addressing national challenges. We are proud to contribute to the 3MTT program and help restore this park as a hub of innovation and opportunity for the Kano community. Supporting initiatives like this and others such as the Ilorin Innovation Hub is how we aim to foster long-term digital growth, create jobs, and drive inclusive development across Nigeria.” He added.

Capping off the event, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, highlighted the significance of public-private collaboration in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.

“The recommissioning of the Kano Digital Industrial Park is a powerful demonstration of what is possible when public and private sector actors unite behind a shared vision. This facility is more than just infrastructure, it is a beacon of innovation, resilience, and opportunity for Northern Nigeria. IHS Nigeria’s swift intervention following the vandalism of this park reflects true partnership and corporate citizenship. Together, we are laying the foundation for a future where young Nigerians, especially those in underserved communities, have the tools and training to thrive in a digital economy.” He highlighted.

The Kano Digital Industrial Park forms a key part of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative, a flagship government program aimed at equipping Nigerians with globally competitive digital skills. The renovation includes fully equipped training labs, power and connectivity infrastructure, upgraded learning spaces, and restored digital equipment to support thousands of learners across Northern Nigeria.

 

The commissioning of the Kano Digital Industrial Park comes just weeks after Ilorin Innovation Hub, the largest innovation hub of its kind in West Africa, which is also sponsored by IHS Nigeria, kicked off its incubation and acceleration programs. These interventions highlight IHS Nigeria’s continued commitment to fostering innovation, creating jobs, and driving the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy. By bringing the Kano Digital Industrial Park back on stream, IHS is reinforcing its pledge to support impactful initiatives at both the federal and sub-national levels, particularly those that provide opportunities for young Nigerians, who represent the future of the nation.

 

By Winifred Bosa

The organisers of the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards are proud to announce that Mr. Udeme Ufot, MFR, Group Chief Executive Officer of SO&U Limited, will serve as Chairman of the 2025 edition of the highly anticipated summit and awards ceremony.

The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Regency Hall, 1 Otunba Jobi-Fele Way, Central Business District, Alausa-Ikeja, Lagos. The theme for the event is, “Advancing Nigeria’s Marketing Ecosystem to Drive Brand Growth.”

With a legacy spanning over three decades, Mr. Ufot is one of the most revered figures in Africa’s advertising and branding landscape. He has led numerous groundbreaking campaigns and helped shape industry standards through visionary leadership and purpose-driven innovation. His role as Chairman further underscores the summit’s dedication to advancing thought leadership and brand excellence in Nigeria and across the continent.

Speaking on the appointment, Lukman Ishau, Publisher of Marketing Space Magazine and Convener of the Brand Handlers Summit, highlighted the deep symbolic and strategic significance of Mr. Ufot’s leadership.

“When we envisioned that the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards has to be steered by someone whose journey reflects the core of what branding truly is; values, vision, and voice, Mr. Udeme Ufot immediately came to mind. He is not only a leader; he is a legacy. His works have shaped how brands are perceived, how stories are told, and how agencies align with purpose. He represents the gold standard, and having him as Chair for the event is both an honour and a symbol of what this platform stands for.”

“Bringing Mr. Udeme Ufot on board as Chairman for the 2025 Summit was not just a strategic decision, but a statement. A statement about excellence, depth, and industry evolution. Mr. Ufot’s career is a textbook of leadership, innovation, and commitment to African excellence in branding,” Ishau added.

He noted that, ‘’The summit will spotlight the urgent need to strengthen Nigeria’s marketing value chain, from education to execution, from strategy to storytelling. The focus will be on empowering professionals, inspiring fresh thinking, and bridging the gap between global trends and local relevance.’’

The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards is designed to be one of Nigeria’s foremost gatherings of marketing minds and brand custodians, offering networking opportunities, knowledge exchange, and a platform for spotlighting excellence in the marketing and communications industry.

As the countdown to August 29 begins, anticipation is building across the marketing, media, and creative landscapes. The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards 2025 promises to be more than an event, it will be a transformational experience that sets the tone for the future of brand development in Nigeria.

The organisers have extended a warm invitation to brand custodians, agency leaders, marketing professionals, aspiring students, policymakers, and visionary entrepreneurs to participate in this landmark event. It will be a dynamic gathering where industry players unite to ignite bold conversations, unlock new opportunities, and collectively shape a marketing ecosystem that drives lasting brand growth and national impact.

 

When we began the Repression of Widowhood campaign, it wasn’t about awards, it was about dignity. About restoring voices that have been silenced, about standing for widows in society, often forgotten, and left behind.

 

In Nigeria, over 15 million women are widows, with a huge proportion classified as underprivileged / disadvantaged widows. Many face abuse, exclusion, neglected or accused of killing their husbands. Some are thrown out of their homes, whereas most are left to survive alone with children to care for and no one to care for them.

 

That’s where we stepped in.

 

What started as a podcast to educate widows on their legal rights became a national movement. From online awareness to real-life action, we mobilized a Walkathon that inspired everyday Nigerians to walk in solidarity. We weren’t just raising voices—we were raising support to echo the pain of disadvantaged widows.

 

But awareness was never enough. We listened to the cries behind the silence. And we acted.

 

With the help of five FMCG brands, we delivered:

 

Food relief and healthcare to 412 widows across Lagos, Ogun, and Anambra

Seed funding and financial empowerment for over 20 women to start their own businesses

Free healthcare for 202 widows

169 children back in school

Seven impactful podcast episodes reaching over 51,000 listeners

A sustainable skill-building initiative, Art Piece of Hope, teaching widows tie & dye fabric making for long-term income

 

These are not just numbers, they are stories of resilience

 

This campaign gave them more than resources gave them back hope, dignity, and a future.

 

And then came the win.

 

At the Pitcher Awards 2025, The Repression of Widowhood was honored with:

 

🏆 Silver for Societal Impact in Effectiveness Category – This category celebrates the measurable impact of creative work. Entries in the Societal Impact subcategory demonstrate how the campaign drove tangible results, was instrumental to cultural change, social change, environmental change or was integral to achieving a brand’s purpose.

 

🏆 Bronze for Non-Profit Organizations in Pitcher for Good Category – This subcategory recognizes communication or initiative that addresses social or environmental issues created by non-profit organizations or a partnership between a for-profit organization and non-profit organization.

 

A proud moment for the CBA Foundation, digitXplus, and for every widow whose life was touched.

“This recognition is for every woman who thought her story had ended. It’s a reminder that we see you, we hear you, and we will keep fighting for you.”

Chinwe Bode Akinwande, Founder – CBA Foundation

 

“It’s not every day you get to be in the forefront of a vision that truly changes lives. We’re proud of this win, but even prouder of the impact.”

Damilola Popoola, Head of Strategy – digitXplus

This wasn’t just a campaign, it was a commitment to justice. to humanity. to lasting change. And we’re not stopping here. We’re walking for hope—until every widow stands tall again.

 

 

 

By Winifred Bosa

Seasoned marketing professional and CEO, Managing Partner, Open Squares Africa, Feyi Olubodun, will deliver the keynote address at the 3rd edition of MediaConsortium Conference (MCCA) on Thursday, September 18, 2025.

The conference with the theme: “DEFINING VALUE IN THE MODERN MARKET: BEYOND PRICE, QUALITY, EXPERIENCE AND ETHICS”, will hold at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos by 10am.

Olubodun, is a sought after speaker and experienced brand builder with several years of experience of building and managing top brands. He was the former Chief Executive at InsightPublicis, and will be bringing his experience to bear in his paper on the theme.

According to the organiser, MediaConsortium Conference, the concept of “value” is no longer confined to the traditional pillars of price, quality, experience, and ethics, in the ever-evolving global marketplace. While these elements remain essential, today’s discerning consumers, investors, and stakeholders demand a more nuanced and multidimensional interpretation of value. To stay relevant and competitive, brands must redefine what value truly means in the modern age.

The event will pull industry stakeholders and allied sectors in an engaging and impactful sections with the aim to stimulate consumer/brand engagement.

A list of marketing communications experts have confirmed their participation to discuss Olubodun’s paper. Among them are Obinna Ojekwe, Marketing Lead, Hydrogen, Yinka Femi Opadere, Head, Online Media, Globacom and Samuel Akinrimisi, New Product Development Lead, EKo Supreme Resources Nig. Limited.

The MediaConsortium Conference, hosted by MediaConsortium, a leading brands, business, and marketing publication, aims to facilitate engagement among stakeholders in the IMC and related sectors to address pertinent issues.

This year’s event follows the successful maiden edition held in 2023 at the Sheraton Hotels and Suites, Ikeja and a second edition held at the LCCI, Ikeja.