Non-Nigerians Must Get Approval Before Practicing Advertising-ARCON
The Advertising Regulatory Council Of Nigeria (ARCON) has stated that from the 1st of April, 2024, employments of Non-Nigerians into the advertising industry will require the prior approval of ARCON. It therefore urged advertising agencies to ensure proper documentation of their Non-Nigerians employees and comply with the directive to avoid sanction.
In a statement signed by Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, Director-General, ARCON and made available to Brand Times titled “Documentation of Non-Nigerians Engaged in the Nigerian Advertising Industry”, ARCON said the directive is In line with its ongoing industry reform and the need to keep proper record of all Non-Nigerians engaged by Advertising Agencies in Nigeria.
According to the statement, “We wish to inform all Advertising Agencies (i.e. full service, creative, media independent, out-of-home, digital and experiential agencies) of the need to ensure proper documentation of all Non-Nigerians in their employments.
“Advertising Agencies which currently engage Non-Nigerians are requested to obtain approval for such employment before 31st March, 2024 for regularization.
“With effect from 1st April, 2024, employments of Non-Nigerians will require the prior approval of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) in line with ARCON proclamation.”
It stated further that applications for engagements of Non-Nigerians should include the following information:
1. Evidence of work permit obtained from relevant government agencies.
2. Proof of the remuneration package and conditions of service as comparable to those offered to Nigerians on the same status and positions.
3. Proof the employment of foreign practitioners will assist in transferring new skills and knowledge to Nigerians.
4. Evidence that the engagement of a foreigner will not affect the employment of Nigerians negatively.
5. The genuineness/validity of the offer.
Non-Nigerians are welcome to practice the profession in Nigeria. However, such practitioners shall be certified and licensed by ARCON in line with the Nigerian Advertising Laws.