The Nigerian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the country’s advertising and creative industries as key drivers of economic growth, innovation and job creation.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the Tinubu administration is implementing policies and reforms to help the industry thrive and position Nigeria as Africa’s leading innovation hub.
This declaration was made at the Advertising Industry Colloquium (AIC) 4.0 organised by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) in Lagos on Thursday.
Represented by the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, Idris said, “The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recognises the strategic importance of Nigeria’s creative and advertising ecosystem to national development. Our administration is implementing bold reforms to build a competitive digital economy capable of creating jobs, attracting investments and positioning Nigeria as Africa’s innovation hub,” Idris said.
The Minister noted that Nigeria’s growing digital economy, supported by more than 170 million active telecommunications subscriptions and expanding broadband infrastructure, has opened new opportunities for advertisers, content creators and digital entrepreneurs.
He described advertising as more than a tool for promoting products, saying it shapes culture, stimulates economic activity, supports businesses and contributes to national development.
Idris also stressed the importance of balancing technological innovation with effective regulation, noting that the rise of digital platforms and Artificial Intelligence must be guided by responsible governance.
“Effective regulation is not an obstacle to growth; it is the foundation for sustainable development. A transparent and forward-looking regulatory framework builds investor confidence, protects consumers and promotes fair competition,” he said.
The Minister urged industry stakeholders to embrace innovation while safeguarding creativity, ethics and intellectual property.
He assured them of the Federal Government’s continued partnership with ARCON and other stakeholders to promote responsible advertising, creative excellence and digital innovation across Africa.
