The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has announced that the third edition of its annual Advertising Industry Colloquium (AIC) will take place on July 8, 2025, at the Sheba Event Centre in Ikeja, Lagos.

Focus on Data-Driven Storytelling and Technology

This year’s event is themed “From Dialogue to Data: Merging Storytelling, Human Engagement & Techs in Marketing Communication.” According to a statement signed by ARCON’s Director General, Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, the theme is designed to foster industry-wide dialogue on the challenges facing integrated marketing communication (IMC) in Nigeria while exploring opportunities for growth through technology, storytelling, and human engagement.

Dr. Fadolapo noted that the event aims to address key issues slowing industry advancement and to encourage professionals to adopt innovative, data-informed strategies for marketing communication.

Lineup of Industry Thought Leaders

The colloquium will feature a series of thought-leadership presentations and panel discussions with leading experts in advertising and marketing.

Confirmed speakers include:

  • Olufemi Odugbemi, Founder & CEO of Zuri24Media, who will deliver the keynote address
  • Lanre Odufuwa, Head of Marketing, Omnibiz Africa
  • Nana Milagrosa, Founder & Chief Experience Curator, MPXM Agency
  • Steve Babaeko, CEO & Chief Creative Officer, X3M Ideas Group
  • Stephen Onaivi, Managing Director, MediaReach OMD
  • Prof. Kolade Ajilore, Associate Professor of Communication Studies, Babcock University

These industry leaders will guide discussions around leveraging data, technology, and creativity to drive effective marketing campaigns and enhance consumer engagement.

Student Pitch Competitions and University Participation

A highlight of the AIC tradition is its pitch competition among Nigerian universities. This year’s edition will feature presentations from students representing:

  • University of Ilorin
  • Covenant University
  • Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State
  • Rivers State University
  • Kaduna Polytechnic
  • Ebonyi State University
  • Pan-Atlantic University

Previous editions of the colloquium awarded financial prizes to universities for outstanding pitch performances, with ARCON confirming that the 2025 event will continue this rewarding tradition.

Networking and Industry Collaboration

Beyond the formal presentations and discussions, the event will offer extensive networking opportunities for participants to share ideas, collaborate, and strengthen professional relationships.

According to ARCON, the third AIC promises to be even bigger and more impactful than previous editions, bringing together students, media representatives, marketing and advertising professionals, business leaders, and brand custodians to advance the collective goals of the industry.

A Commitment to Industry Growth

ARCON’s annual colloquium has become a flagship event for Nigeria’s advertising and marketing communication community, providing a platform for dialogue, learning, and strategic partnership.

By focusing on merging storytelling with data and technology, this year’s event aims to equip industry players with the insights and tools needed to adapt to a rapidly evolving marketing landscape and to deliver more impactful, consumer-focused campaigns.