HOW ERELU ABIOLA DOSUMU INSPIRED ME TO ORGANIZE ICONIC BRANDS & LEGENDS OF MARKETING COMMUNICATION AWARDS - MR. SAMUEL AJAYI
In a heartfelt reflection on a journey of determination and inspiration, Mr. Samuel Ajayi, the visionary behind the Iconic Brands & Legends of Marketing Communication Awards, shared how Her Royal Highness, Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, the Erelu Kuti IV of Lagos, ignited the spark that brought his long-standing dream to fruition.
According to Mr. Ajayi, he had the privilege of being part of the planning team for the 50th coronation anniversary of Erelu Abiola Dosunmu. The event, orchestrated in just 28 days, stood as a remarkable testament to Erelu's leadership, vision, and ability to achieve excellence within a constrained timeline. Reflecting on this success, Mr. Ajayi recounted, “I thought to myself, if Erelu can accomplish this feat in just 28 days, I can realize my decade-long dream.”
That pivotal moment of realization propelled him into action. Driven by newfound courage, Mr. Ajayi called upon a few trusted friends and collaborators to embark on what would become a transformative journey. Within three months, his vision of celebrating the legends and pioneers of marketing communications materialized, culminating in the maiden edition of the Iconic Brands & Legends of Marketing Communication Awards.
AN EVENING OF HONOR AND CELEBRATION
The landmark event took place on Tuesday, 10th December 2024, at the prestigious Nnamdi Azikwe Hall, Radisson Blu, Isaac John Street, Ikeja, Lagos. Organized by Q-Media & Communications Ltd., publishers of the Annual Marketing Communications A-List, the event combined two significant milestones: the awards ceremony and the public presentation of the maiden edition of the Annual Marketing Communications A-List.
Themed "Marketing Communications Practice in the Last 40 Years: Between Technological Innovation and Human Creativity," the evening brought together distinguished guests, including top industry players, marketers, and advertising professionals.
Renowned Marketing Communications expert Akin Adeoya delivered the keynote address. Adeoya, a foremost writer, former Campaign Editor at THISDAY Newspapers, and Managing Director of Marketing Mix, explored the evolution of marketing communications over the past four decades. His address highlighted the delicate balance between creativity and innovation in an age defined by technological disruptions.
The event also featured engaging panel sessions, moderated by: Bolaji Abimbola, CEO, Indigo PR. Panelists are Kayode Olagesin, MD/CEO Town Criers Limited, Daniel Obi, Brand Editor, BUSINESSDAY Newspaper, . Industry experts shared insights on the transformation, challenges, and future of marketing communications in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of honoring the trailblazers who laid the foundation for today’s thriving sector.
CELEBRATING ICONS AND LEGENDS
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards to deserving brands and legends of the marketing communications industry. The ceremony celebrated individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to shaping the landscape of advertising, public relations, and branding in Nigeria. The The Iconic Brands Award was bestowed upon 9mobile, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Silver's Group, InDrive, Indomie Noodles, Semovita, and The Cable News. Meanwhile, the Legends of Marketing Communications Awards were presented to Toe Ekechi, Chairman of Marketing+Media and Allianz Media Limited; Lanre Adisa, MD/CCO of Noah's Ark Communications Limited; Dr. Yetty Ogunnibi, CEO of YD Company Limited; Olubunmi Oke, CEO of Ladybird Limited; Tosin Adefeko, CEO of AT3 Resources Limited; Steve Babaeko, CEO of Xtreme Ideas; Jaiye Olayemi, MD/CEO Strategist of Chain Reactions Africa; John E. Ehiguese, Founder/CEO of Mediacraft Associates; Chiro Nwakanma, CEO of Brandhaus Communications Limited; Kayode Olagesin, CEO of Town Criers; Tokunboh George-Taylor, Founder/CEO of Slot Communications; and Taiwo Osunsanya, MD of Mediapro Limited. Additionally, six luminaries in the field of Marketing Communications were honored with the Lifetime Achievers Award, including Lolu Akinwunmi, the Group CEO of Prima Garnet Africa; Jimi Awosika, the Vice Chairman of The Troyka Group; Udeme Ufot, the Managing Director of SO&U Saatchi and Saatchi; and Mr. Funmi Onabolu, the CEO of Cosee TTL.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Mr. Ajayi expressed his deep gratitude and elation, saying, “I am filled with immense happiness and gratitude for having achieved what we set out to do. I am elated.”
The Iconic Brands & Legends of Marketing Communication Awards not only honored pioneers but also served as a platform to inspire future generations of marketers and communicators to strive for excellence in an evolving industry.
With this maiden edition, Mr. Samuel Ajayi and his team have set a standard for celebrating innovation, creativity, and legacy within Nigeria’s marketing communications sector.
.png)
0 Comments