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Information Minister Urges Marketing Communicators To Tackle Anti-Nigeria False Narratives

By Winifred Bosa

From (L-R), Tunji Adeyinka, NAC 2025, Chairman planning committee, Larne Adisa HASG/AAAN President, Tolulope Medebem, EXMAN President, Minister of Information, Alh. Idris Mohammed, Steve Babaeko, X3M Ideas Chief Executive, ARCON DG, Dr. Lekan Fadolapo and Brenda Nwagwu, Vice President, MIPAN.

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris has called for a communication renaissance, charging marketing communications experts to shape how the nation is perceived globally.

According to the minister, the communication renaissance should be one that emphasizes facts over fear, unity over division, and truth over propaganda.

Alhaji Idris, speaking at the fifth edition of the National Advertising Conference at the Continental hotel, Abuja on Wednesday, said this in reaction to the false narrative about the country being branded as a “violator of religious freedom.”

“Marketing communication professionals have an enormous responsibility.

You are not only storytellers for brands and businesses — you are also custodians of national perception and image”.

He emphasised that, when false narratives about Nigeria are spread — especially internationally — “it is your creativity, strategy, and storytelling that can counterbalance them with truth, context, and compelling narratives of hope and progress,” the minister said.

“We must project Nigeria as it truly is: a diverse, dynamic, and resilient nation of hardworking people who coexist peacefully, aspire collectively, and strive daily to build a better society. Through integrated campaigns, digital storytelling, strategic partnerships, and value-based branding, our marketers can reshape how Nigeria is perceived globally — as a land of opportunity, innovation, and creativity, not of conflict or crisis,” he affirmed.

The National advertising conference provides platforms for thought leadership and engagement opportunities. ​This year’s edition which is the fifth is with the theme: “Marketing Communications: Transforming Businesses and Creating Growth in Challenging Times”.

In his remark, the Director General of Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Lekan Fadolapo described the conference as a gathering where industry stakeholders come together as “strategists, creators, curators, innovators, and storytellers to exchange insights, challenge assumptions, and share solutions.

IMC Experts Urge Culture Of Knowledge Sharing , Inter-Generational Collaboration To Boost Productivity

Experts in the Integrated Marketing Communications sector have emphasised on the need for creation of culture of knowledge sharing and inter-generational collaboration to enhance work place productivity.

They pointed that this will build generational gap as well as creating an enabling environment especially in a work with multi generations.

The advise was made at the opening of the 5th National Advertising Conference (NAC) presently holding at the Abuja Continental hotel, Abuja.

They said this in a Fireside Chat on the theme: “A Different Generation, a Different Industry”.

The panelist were, Dr. Bolajoko Bayo-Ajayi, President, NIMN, Anthony Eigbe, Tecno West Africa, Maryam Amuda, Aster Integrated Marketing and Bello Yussuf, 3-IPOD.

According to Dr. Bolajoko Bayo-Ajayi, collaboration and knowledge sharing between the older and younger generations are vital to bridging the industry’s talent gap. To make that happen, she calls for the need for an enabling environment to allow especially the young ones to speak in a non-threatening environment, and for leaders to be accessible by the young ones.

“In a team where you have a multi-generation, if you don’t create an enabling environment- you may have a team member that may feel unappreciated which will affect workplace productivity,” she said.

“It is a responsibility for us as leaders to give access to people  and also break the barriers that hinder collaboration to aid knowledge transfer”, she affirmed.

She also advocated for knowledge documentation to help the young professionals in the work place.

“Sometimes people don’t have to go through the same experience we have gone through- but through sharing and documenting what we know will help people gain more knowledge and their learning curve can be shortened. At the end of the day people don’t have to reinvent the wheel- but can be replicated and that is one of our roles as leaders.”

She however pointed that at some point the knowledge could be obsolete but at end the knowledge will come handy.

Corroborating Dr. Banjoko’s position, Bello Yusuf noted that, irrespective of trend what should not change are the fundamentals.

“Change is constant- fundamentals too are constant- if an organisations does not have the fundamentals at some point it will show,” he said.

Speaking on what has changed in the industry today, Maryam Amuda said is the audience, who are now dynamic, ever changing and intentional in how they relate to brands.

In his goodwill message, Lanre Adisa, HASG and AAAN President said NAC 2025 was not just talk for the sake of talk, but about sharing thoughts and sharing ideas and this conference has proven to be one of those very useful platforms to do that.

Industry Leaders To Discuss AI Opportunities, Challenges At BJAN Conference

By Winifred Bosa

Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN) has announced the theme and line up of speakers at its 2025 Annual Conference, themed: “AI and Future of Marketing Workflow: Disruption or Opportunity.”

The conference will hold on November 28, 2025, at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos and bring together key stakeholders from Nigeria’s integrated marketing and communications industry.

The event will be chaired by Mr. Udeme Ufot, Group Chief Executive Officer, SO&U Limited, one of Nigeria’s foremost advertising agencies. Under his leadership, the conference will provide a platform for industry professionals to explore how AI is transforming marketing strategies, advertising, and consumer engagement.

According to BJAN Chairman Mr. Daniel Obi, the conference is designed to foster robust dialogue among professionals across public relations, brand and reputation management advertising, integrated marketing communications (IMC), and related sectors.

“AI is no longer a futuristic concept; it is a present reality reshaping industries and economies. This year’s conference will help stakeholders understand how to adapt, leverage opportunities, and navigate the ethical considerations of AI adoption,” Obi stated.

The speakers and panel members are: Dr. Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President, Group Marketing & Corporate Communications, Interswitch Group; Mr. Folajimi Daodu, Chief Executive Officer, Vault Hill; Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, Director-General, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) and Bethel Obioma, Head, Corporate Communications, Sahara Group
presenting.

The conference will also feature a panel discussion with experts from advertising, technology, banking, and telecommunications, including Emma Adeniran, an ICT Expert; Morolake Emokpaire, Marketing Lead, Cadbury Nigeria Plc; Lanre Basamta, CEO/Co-founder, Optimus AI Labs; Austin Onyebuchi Akosa, Chief Information Officer, UBA and Dr. Seyi Akindeinde, Founder Hyperspace Technologies.

The panel will examine emerging trends, ethical concerns, and strategic opportunities for AI adoption in marketing and business operations.

As the forenost group of journalists converting the integrated marketing terrain in Nigeria, BJAN’s annual conference has become a veritable platform for learning, networking, and robust dialogue on industry issues.

The 2025 edition will bring together business leaders, regulators, marketers, consumers, and journalists to explore how AI can drive innovation, efficiency, and competitiveness in Nigeria’s marketing and communications landscape.

Participants will also be afforded network, collaboration opportunities, along with vibrant ideas towards developing strategies for responsible and effective AI integration into marketing workflows.

‘Adopt A Survivor’: Polaris Bank Introduces Support Scheme For Breast Cancer Survivors

By Winifred Bosa

L-R; Rasheed Bolarinwa Head, Brand Manager & Corporate Communications , Mary Enigbokan ( one of the beneficiaries), Mrs Ebun Anozie, CEO C.O.P.E during the launching of the Adopt a Survivor Breast Cancer Support Initiative by Polaris Bank in Lagos recently.

Polaris Bank has launched the Adopt a Survivor Breast Cancer Support Initiative, a social impact programme aimed at empowering breast cancer survivors to rebuild their lives and livelihoods after treatment.

While October is globally known for breast cancer awareness, Polaris Bank is extended focus to the recovery phase where many survivors struggle to regain economic stability.

The initiative provides livelihood support to verified survivors, helping them restart small businesses and return to income-earning activities with dignity.

Delivering the message of the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Bank, Mr. Kayode Lawal, to beneficiaries last Thursday at the Bank’s NGO Partner, C.O.P.E Office in Lagos, the Head, Brand Management & Corporate Communication, Rasheed Bolarinwa, said the initiative demonstrates Polaris Bank’s commitment to turning business success into social good.

“At Polaris Bank, we believe true impact happens when corporate growth translates into empowerment for people. The ‘Adopt a Survivor’ initiative allows us to stand with women—not just in the fight against breast cancer, but in rebuilding their confidence and independence,” he said.

He explained that the programme aligns with the Bank’s strategic CSR pillars of health, women empowerment, and community wellbeing, while also supporting the social goals of ESG and the UN Sustainable Development Goals that promote wellness and economic inclusion.

This year’s intervention builds on Polaris Bank’s earlier survivor-focused efforts, including wellness retreats and capacity-building support for women who have overcome breast cancer.

Through this initiative, Polaris Bank reaffirms its role as a partner in helping women live fulfilling lives beyond treatment.

 

Rex Insurance’s GWP Hits N28.76bn In 2024 Financial Performance Update

By Amaka Obiefuna

 

Rex Insurance, Nigeria’s leading insurance company with over 100 years of experience in the insurance industry and offering general and special risks protection policies, has declared a Gross Written Premium of N28.76 billion of the financial year ended December 31, 2024, reflecting a 72 percent growth compared to the figure of 2023.

 

This was disclosed by the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mrs. Ebelechukwu Nwachukwu during a press conference with Insurance Editors in Lagoe recently.
According to her, “today, we are pleased to announce Rex’s financial results for the full year 2024—a year we defined by resilient growth, strategic discipline, and a relentless focus on our customers.
A review of the results shows a Gross Premium Income of N28.76billion while Gross Claims paid to Policyholders stood at N30.2, showing an increased capacity to meet all obligations to our customers, no matter the quantum of the claim.
Total Assets for the
company for the year stands at N56.10billion with Shareholders Funds standing at N19.15billion at the end of the 2024 financial year. Profit before Tax (PBT) amounted to
N880million.
Despite a complex and dynamic global economic environment, I am proud to report that Rex has not only met but exceeded its financial targets.
These results are a testament to the strength of our business model, the dedication of our exceptional team, and the
success of our long-term strategy”, Mrs. Nwachukwu added.
“Despite facing significant challenges, including a large claim that impacted on our
financial standing, we are pleased to report that the company successfully met its obligations and settled the claim in a timely manner. This highlights our operational resilience and commitment to maintaining the trust of our clients.
 Throughout the year,
we focused on optimizing processes, including improving claims turnaround time, which
helped stabilize our performance and ensure continued growth and profitability”
SheRex Insurance’s GWP Hits N28.76bn in 2024 Financial Performance Update further added that the company’s focus on operational efficiency and diversified income streams enabled the firm to deliver a profit before tax of N880.7 million, despite the significant claims, highlights the underlying strength and resilience of the business model.
Also, the company was able to pay a dividend to its shareholders.
FirstBank Extends Good Life Promo, Collaborates With Verve To Issue Free Debit Cards

By Winifred Bosa

 

First Bank of Nigeria Limited (FirstBank), Nigeria’s premier and leading financial inclusion services provider, has announced the launch of the Verve Flash Promo, a special initiative rewarding customers with free Verve cards.

 

 

 

The campaign, which commenced on 6 October 2025, and will run until 30 January 2026, is exclusively targeted at FirstBank customers whose ATM cards have expired.

 

 

 

According to a press release by the bank, the free cards will be issued daily to 131 customers on a first-come, first-served basis across the Bank’s branches, nationwide. FirstBank’s unwavering commitment to convenience, accessibility, and customer satisfaction.

 

 

 

Speaking on the rewards to FirstBank customers, Chuma Ezirim, the Group Executive, e-Business and Retail Products at FirstBank, said: “The Verve Flash Promo is not just about rewarding customers with free verve debit cards; it is about celebrating our legacy of 131 years of trust, resilience, and innovation in the Nigerian financial services industry. At FirstBank, we remain committed to providing customer-centric solutions that enable secure, seamless, and convenient payment experiences. Partnering with Verve International on these initiatives, including the Verve Good Life promo, underscores our shared vision of deepening financial inclusion while rewarding our loyal customers for their continuous patronage.”

 

 

 

Also commenting, Vincent Ogbunude, Managing Director, Verve International, noted:

 

“Through strategic collaborations like this with FirstBank, we continue to demonstrate Verve’s commitment to enhancing access to seamless payment solutions for every Nigerian. The Verve Flash Promo not only rewards loyal customers but also reinforces our vision of making everyday transactions more rewarding, secure, and convenient. As we extend the Good Life Promo, we remain steadfast in our goal of deepening financial inclusion while delivering real value to Verve cardholders across the country.”

 

 

 

Meanwhile, the ongoing Verve Good Life promo, designed to reward Verve debit card holders for using their cards at specific merchant points, has been extended to 30 November 2025.

 

During the period, Verve Card holders enjoy 10% cashback at The Place Restaurant, Quickteller, Buypower, Filmhouse, AlliExpress, Addide Supermarkets, and Chowdeck app every Thursday to Sunday.

 

 

 

Verve cardholders can now enjoy a 10% cashback on the Google Play Store any day of the week throughout the Good Life Promo, which runs until 30 November 2025. Moreso, every transaction made with a Verve card whether on ATMs, POS terminals, or online platforms automatically earns customers a chance to win up to ₦1,000,000.

 

 

NAFDAC DG Celebrates Staff Over Landmark Achievements , Says Nigeria Remains Global Regulatory Leader

…. Rewards Officers with exceptional performances

By Winifred Bosa

The Director General of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye has attributed the milestones achieved by the Agency to the collective effort and resilience of staff which resulted in achieving WHO Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT) re-benchmarking, becoming the first in Africa to sustain and maintain Maturity Level 3 (ML3) for medicines regulation.

According to a press release by Sayo Akintola, Resident Media Consultant NAFDAC, She noted that the extraordinary feat reaffirms Nigerias leadership in the global regulatory landscape.

Speaking at the 2024 NAFDAC Awards, Recognition & Retirement Ceremony on Monday in Lagos, Prof Adeyeye said the event was not only to celebrate milestones but to honour the beating heart of NAFDAC – the committed and hardworking staff, whose dedication, resilience, and professionalism continue to define and sustain our Agencys legacy of excellence.
Each year, she said the ceremony ‘gives us a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate how far we have come as one NAFDAC family, noting that ‘our achievements are not the result of chance, but of collective diligence, sacrifice, and shared purpose.’
According to the DG, every report written, every inspection conducted, every risk mitigated, and every regulation enforced contributes to a healthier, safer Nigeria.

The highly elated Chief Executive Officer of NAFDAC, pointed out that our Agency, under your collective effort, achieved WHO Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT) re-benchmarking, becoming the first in Africa to sustain and maintain Maturity Level 3 (ML3) for medicines regulation.’

She explained that The Agency also achieved another world-first as the first National Regulatory Authority globally to be benchmarked for Medical Devices and In-Vitro Diagnostics (IVDs) toward ML3 attainment.

She maintained that these milestones were not achieved by leadership alone, they were powered by teams of committed professionals who gave their best each day to ensure that our processes met WHOs stringent standards.

In 2024, she disclosed that the Agency also commissioned the state-of-the-art edifice for the Vaccine, Biologics, Medical Devices and IVDs Registration and Regulatory Affairs Directorate.

It is an investment in science, technology, and the future of health regulation ‘and it stands as a symbol of our resolve to institutionalize sustainability and innovation.’

Furthermore, she stated that the Agency sustained ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Laboratory Accreditation and achieved ISO 9001:2015 Re-Certification, affirming its unbroken commitment to quality and international best practices.

‘This could only have been possible through the hard work and diligence of our quality managers, laboratory analysts, and administrative teams who ensure compliance and continuous improvement.’

In parallel, the NAFDAC boss emphasised that incorporation of NAFDAC into the Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme (PIC/S) as a Pre-Applicant in the Pre-Accession phase is a milestone that positions Nigeria among nations that uphold harmonized GMP standards globally, adding that this opens new frontiers for Nigerias pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, ‘and again, it was made possible by your professionalism and competence.’

Prof Adeyeye also stated that the Agency intensified its enforcement operations in partnership with the
Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), shutting down major open drug markets, confiscating falsified medicines and destroying substandard products, adding that these courageous actions saved countless lives and reaffirmed public confidence in our regulatory system. ‘The success of these operations speaks to the bravery and integrity of our enforcement teams across Nigeria, she said

‘No achievement can be sustained without human capital development. That is why, under the International Council on Harmonization (ICH) training programmes, staff across directorates received advanced capacity-building sessions on ICHQ1, ICHQ7, E6(R3) and M13 Bioequivalence Studies guidelines.

 

These trainings reflect our unwavering investment in you, our people, because a skilled and motivated workforce is NAFDACs greatest asset.’
The proven implementation of these guidelines and other requirements has resulted in invitation of NAFDAC by ICH to become a member of the prestigious organization.
According to her, the awardees recognition is proof to excellence, consistency, and passion for service, adding that they have raised the bar and set new standards for others to emulate.

 

Let this recognition inspire you and your colleagues to continue striving for innovation, diligence, and excellence in all you do.
To our retirees, today is both a celebration and a tribute. You have devoted years, some, decades of your lives to building this institution.

You have guided the next generation with patience, integrity, and wisdom. Your footprints are indelible in the history of NAFDAC. As you enter this new chapter of rest and reflection, please know that your legacy lives on in the systems, policies, and culture you helped to build.

‘The global health landscape continues to evolve, and we must evolve with it, remaining agile, science-driven, and people-centered in all we do. You are the pillars of NAFDACs success, the silent heroes whose everyday work safeguards the lives of millions of Nigerians.’

Speaking in same vein, Chairman, 2024 NAFDAC Awards, Recognition & Retirement Ceremony, Dr. Rametu Momodu said over the years, NAFDAC has remained a beacon of hope for Nigerians, safeguarding lives through diligence, vigilance, and science-driven regulation. Dr Momodu who also doubles as Director, VMAP, noted that each success story we tell today is built upon the unwavering commitment of staff who give their best, often beyond the call of duty.

‘Our awardees embody this spirit. You represent the finest qualities of the Agency, resilience, professionalism, and integrity. Your innovative thinking and pursuit of excellence have made an indelible impact, not only within our institution but across Nigerias public health ecosystem, she said.

 

CEO Vault Hill Set To Inspire Participants As Countdown Begins For BJAN 2025 Conference On AI , Marketing

 

By Winifred Bosa

Folajimi Daodu, Chief Executive Officer of Vault Hill and one of the keynote speakers at the 2025 National Brands and Marketing Conference powered by Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), has tasked participants at this year’s conference to be expectant.

Daodu, one of Africa’s most prominent voices in artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and immersive technology, will be speaking at the BJAN-organised event on the theme: “AI and Marketing Workflow: Disruption or Opportunity,” at the Brand Journalists’ Conference scheduled for Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos.

According to Daodu, participants at the conference should come with a broad mindset to exchange ideas on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to be able to appreciate the many advantages it offers.

“AI is no longer a futuristic concept, but a present reality shaping industries and economies,” Daodu stated.

He noted that, like every major innovation, AI has both positive and negative sides, and innovators need to open their minds to the opportunities while they should also prepare for what could go wrong.

“AI is here to stay, and we must figure out how to work with it as co-collaborators,” Daodu said, adding that the BJAN conference will provide opportunities for discussion on AI come November 28.

The Brands and Marketing Conference is an annual event that brings stakeholders in the Integrated Marketing Communications sector together to discuss issues that affect not just the sector but the economy at large.

This year’s conference, which is the 13th in the series, will explore the benefits of AI in marketing to create a balance as the world grapples with this new trend.

Other seasoned professionals who will deliver the keynote alongside Folajimi Daodu, are Dr Cherry Eromosele, the Executive Vice President and Group Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Interswitch Group and ARCON DG, Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, who will speak on “AI and Advertising Regulation in the Digital Age: Challenges and Opportunities”.

Their papers are expected to be dissected by a lineup of professionals and seasoned experts in a panel discussion. They are, Morolake Emokpaire, Marketing Lead at Cadbury Nigeria Plc., Lanre Basamta,
CEO/Co-founder Optimus AI Labs, Austin Onyebuchi Akosa, Chief Information Officer, UBA and Emma Adeniran, an ICT expert.

NLNG Launches The Nigeria Prize For Creative Arts To Empower Young Nigerians

By Winifred Bosa

 L-R: Joel Benson, Technical Adviser to Advisory Board of The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts (NPCA); Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, NLNG’s Manager, Corporate Communication & Public Affairs; Sophia Horsfall, NLNG’s GM, External Relations & Sustainable Development; and NPCA Advisory Board members, Prof Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo (Chairman), and Emeritus Prof. Olu Obafemi, at the unveiling of prize with focus on Documentary filmmaking in Lagos, Friday.

NLNG has stated that new The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts will target young Nigerians with the aim of inspiring them to tell stories that redefines the nation’s image.

At a press conference in Lagos, the Company announced that the Prize, a new category under its sponsored-The Nigeria Prizes will target emerging Nigerian filmmakers aged 18 to 35.

 

The Company also stated further that the Prize will challenge young Nigerians to produce documentary films that celebrate the nation’s identity and reshape global perceptions of Nigeria through information, creativity, and visual excellence.

The Prize cycle which will commence in February 2026 with a call for entry, alongside the other prizes, The Nigeria Prize for Science and The Nigeria Prize for Literature.

The Prize comes with the award money of $20,000.

Speaking at a press conference, Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, explained that the initiative reflects NLNG’s deep commitment to nurturing creative capital as part of national development.

“The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts is an invitation for young Nigerians to own their narrative, to show the world our complexity, our brilliance, and our resilience through film. This Prize symbolises NLNG’s belief that storytelling is nation-building that every frame, every voice, and every perspective matters in the shaping of who we are and who we aspire to be, Horsfall said.

She emphasised that the initiative bridges Nigeria’s dynamic youth population and the broader creative industry, strengthening the nation’s voice globally while promoting unity and understanding through storytelling.

The Advisory Board for The Nigeria Prize for Literature and The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts, chaired by Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, will administer the new category.

She will be supported by Emeritus Professor Olu Obafemi and Professor Ahmed Yerima.

Professor Adimor-Ezeigbo noted that the Prize marks a significant milestone in NLNG’s over two-decade journey of celebrating excellence across disciplines.

“The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts is a reaffirmation of our belief that excellence knows no boundary. It can be written, spoken, or filmed. It asks its creators to confront truth, explore memory, and translate experience into meaning,” she said.

She emphasised that the Prize would align with the overarching strategy of the prizes to reward excellence.
Joel Benson, an Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker and Technical Advisor to Adivsory Board, stated that the Prize would be benchmarked against international film festival standards, ensuring that winning entries can compete globally.

He added that the creative energy of Nigeria’s youth deserves a platform that matches its ambition.

Benson explained further that only short documentaries of no more than 20 minutes will be accepted in the inaugural edition, adding that entries will be judged on storytelling craft, originality, production quality and creativity, among other metrics.

He revealed that the judging panel will be chaired by Dr. Sam Dede, a veteran actor, director, and senior lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt.

He will be joined by Adeola Aderonke, an award-winning film director, art historian, scriptwriter, and producer and George Ugwuja, a renowned film producer who has delivered high-quality work for international organisations.

The prize cycle will end in October 2026 with the announcement of the final verdict at the Grand Award Night, sponsored by NLNG.

Academy Press Plc Hosts Stakeholders’ Forum , Celebrates 60 Years of Excellence

By Winifred Bosa


L–R: Non-Executive Director, Mrs. Fatima Betara; Chairman, Board of Directors, Mr. Wahab Dabiri, Non-Executive Director, Mr. David Pritchard; Non-Executive Director, Chief Oyewole Olaoye; Managing Director, Mr. Gbenga Ladipo and Deputy Managing Director, Mrs. Oluwakemi Ogunnubi, all of Academy Press PLC during the public presentation of the book titled Celebrating the Past, Envisioning Tomorrow, held as part of the 60th anniversary celebration of Academy Press, in Lagos on Wednesday, October 22, 2025.

As part of its 60th Anniversary celebrations, Nigeria’s foremost printing and publishing solutions provider, Academy Press Plc has successfully hosted a Stakeholders’ Forum on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island.

The landmark event brought together distinguished guests, industry leaders, government representatives and business partners to celebrate the company’s six decades of excellence, innovation, and contribution to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
Giving his opening speech, Chairman, Board of Directors, Academy Press Plc, Mr. Wahab Babatunde Dabiri, expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their unwavering support over the years.

“As we celebrate 60 years of Academy Press, we are filled with immense gratitude to our shareholders, staff, partners, and customers who have stood by us through every chapter of this journey. Sixty years represents resilience, innovation, and an unwavering belief in our purpose. The journey has been rewarding, but even more exciting are the years ahead as we continue to build on our legacy and expand into new areas such as light packaging and digital print solutions.” He stated.

The highlight of the event included remarks from stakeholders, a commemorative presentation on the company’s historical milestones and strategic outlook for the future as well as the public presentation of the book titled Celebrating the Past, Envisioning Tomorrow.

In his address, Managing Director of Academy Press Plc, Mr. Gbenga Ladipo, reflected on the company’s remarkable journey and resilience over the decades.
“This is a milestone that compels reflection. Today, we pause not just to count the years or measure our figures, but to celebrate our sustenance, our resilience, our people, and our purpose. At this age, Academy Press is more than a company. It is a living canvas woven from the threads of time, people, and promise. The next sixty years will not just be a continuation, they will be a new creation, informed by our legacy but not limited by it.” He said

Among the dignitaries’ present were top government officials, corporate executives, and industry stakeholders, including representatives of the Governor of Lagos State as well as the Oba of Lagos.

Representing the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Olarenwaju Bajulaiye, congratulated Academy Press Plc on its 60th anniversary, describing it as a true Nigerian success story built on excellence and innovation.

He commended the company’s role in education and governance and urged it to keep investing in talent, technology, and sustainability to drive future growth.

The Stakeholders’ Forum forms part of a week-long line-up of activities commemorating the company’s Diamond Jubilee. Other events include a humanitarian visit to Ilupeju Orphanage and Olusoye Compensatory Home, the 61st Annual General Meeting, a Jumat Service, Staff Party, and a Thanksgiving Service at the Anglican Church, Ilupeju.