Nigeria’s Marketing Communications Industry Gears Up for 2025 National Advertising Conference in Abuja
By Azeez Disu
The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), in partnership with key sectoral groups within Nigeria’s advertising and marketing communications industry, has announced the upcoming 2025 National Advertising Conference (NAC). This prominent industry event is scheduled to take place from Wednesday, 12th November to Friday, 14th November 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotel (formerly Sheraton), situated at 1 Ladi Kwali Street, Wuse Zone 4.
Recognised as a cornerstone event in Nigeria’s marketing calendar, the NAC continues to attract distinguished practitioners from across the country and beyond. Serving as Nigeria’s premier gathering for marketing communications professionals, the conference offers an invaluable platform for thought leadership, advocacy, networking, industry exhibitions, and direct engagement with regulators.
Driving Industry Growth in Challenging Times
Under the theme “Marketing Communications: Transforming Businesses and Creating Growth in Challenging Times”, organisers emphasise the sector’s vital role as a catalyst for economic development. Dr Olalekan Fadolapo, Director-General of ARCON, at a Media Briefing held in Lagos, highlighted that this year’s edition aims to be larger and more impactful, focusing on innovative strategies to transform and expand Nigeria’s advertising and marketing landscape.
Tunji Adeyinka, Chair of the Organising Committee, stressed that the conference’s primary objective is to foster business transformation and stimulate growth, a mission particularly relevant amidst the current global and local economic challenges.
A Rich Programme of Insights and Discussions
This year’s conference features over 50 speakers from diverse sectors and regions, delivering a programme meticulously planned to ensure a comprehensive and engaging experience for attendees:
– Day One (Wednesday, 12th November):
The event will kick off with a fireside chat titled “A Different Generation, A Different Industry,” setting the tone for discussions on industry evolution.
– Day Two (Thursday, 13th November):
Following opening ceremonies, key sessions will focus on the “Economic Outlook and Growth.” The programme will explore “Driving Business Growth in Challenging Times” from an advertiser’s perspective, alongside a plenary on “Agency Business in Tough Times: Boom or Bust.” Additional discussions will cover “Developing the Next Generation of Marketing Communications Professionals” and “Transformation: The Technology Advantage,” with a special focus on Artificial Intelligence. The day will also include insights into “Sub-nationals and Opportunities in Tourism,” featuring the case study of the upcoming “Detty December” season.
– Day Three (Friday, 14th November):
The final day will feature four parallel breakout sessions, including one dedicated solely to academia. Masterclasses will address topics such as “Destination Branding.” A town hall session will provide a platform for practitioners nationwide to engage directly with ARCON’s Director-General, Dr Lai, and sectoral group presidents. The conference will conclude with an industry dinner and after-party, offering ample networking opportunities.
Industry Leaders Call for Unity and Action
Industry leaders have expressed strong support for the event. Dozie Okafor, President of the Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIPAN), emphasised the importance of NAC in helping the industry navigate ongoing changes. Lanre Adisa, President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) and Chairman of the Heads of Advertising Sectoral Groups (HASG), highlighted the platform’s role in fostering collaboration and synergy in Nigeria’s increasingly tech-driven industry. Tolulope Medebem, President of the Experiential Marketers Association of Nigeria (EXMAN), stressed that now is the opportune moment for industry stakeholders to unite and strategise amidst current economic challenges.
Registration and Participation
The conference aims to attract over 400 delegates, primarily C-Level executives, united by a shared goal of industry growth and innovation. Early bird registration costs Naira 250,000 until the end of October, increasing to Naira 300,000 from 1st November onwards. For added convenience, Ibom Air is offering return flights from Lagos to Abuja for Naira 280,000, available exclusively to registered participants until 20th September. Discounted hotel rates are also available, with details accessible on the conference website.
About the NAC
The National Advertising Conference stands as Nigeria’s flagship event for marketing communications, bringing together industry professionals, academics, and stakeholders to discuss emerging trends, address critical challenges, and explore new opportunities shaping the future of advertising and marketing in Nigeria.