Iyorza Assumes Office as Advertising Practitioners Chairman in Cross River
By Benjamin GBOR
The Cross River State Council of the Advertising Practitioners of Nigeria has inaugurated its new leadership, with Prof. Stanislaus Iyorza assuming office as chairman.
The inauguration ceremony, conducted by Barr. Ukam Ngwu, brought together advertising professionals, stakeholders, and invited guests who gathered to witness the formal transition of leadership in the state chapter.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Iyorza expressed appreciation to members of the council for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to strengthen professionalism and uphold ethical standards in advertising practice across the state.
He stressed the need to sanitise the advertising space, particularly with the growing influence of digital and social media platforms, and urged practitioners to comply with registration requirements set by the regulatory council.
The new chairman outlined plans to bridge the gap between industry practitioners and academia, noting that collaboration with higher institutions would enhance knowledge sharing and improve standards within the sector. He added that the council would organise training workshops, seminars, and stakeholder engagements to build capacity among practitioners.
Prof. Iyorza also emphasised the importance of promoting local content, observing that a large share of advertising materials used in the state are produced outside Cross River. He said encouraging local talent would not only create jobs but also strengthen the state’s creative economy.
He further assured that the council would work closely with government and relevant stakeholders to promote responsible and effective advertising practices, while identifying practitioners across outdoor, electronic, and digital platforms for proper engagement and development.
In his remarks, the outgoing chairman, Mr. Ita Okon, highlighted achievements recorded since the association’s establishment in 2022, including formal registration, establishment of operational structures, and improved coordination among practitioners.
Okon commended the Director General of ARCON, Olalekan Fadolapo, and the Director General of CRISSAA, Sam Ubon, for their support, expressing confidence that the new leadership would build on existing gains.
Also speaking, the Secretary of the council, Dr. Michael Igbo, emphasised the importance of professionalism and certification, noting that only trained and registered individuals should practice advertising. He stressed that the council is committed to maintaining standards and credibility within the industry.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Ben Okeke, who appreciated members and stakeholders for their support and called for unity in advancing advertising practice in Cross River State.
