Oyo State Government Pledges to Create Conducive Environment for Outdoor Advertising

Oyo State Acting Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal, has called on practitioners in the outdoor communication industry to maintain high standards of professionalism and compliance in their operations.

During the 39th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Out of Home Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN), themed “Redefining OOH Media in Nigeria: The Practice, the Business, and Value Creation,” held at De-Signature Hotels and Towers, Jericho, Ibadan, Lawal emphasized the critical role the industry plays in shaping the state’s visual landscape. The meeting was highlighted in a press release signed by Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the Special Adviser (Media) to the Oyo State Governor, on August 16, 2024.

Lawal noted that the outdoor advertising industry significantly impacts the aesthetic and orderly presentation of the state. He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure that the visual environment remains vibrant, dynamic, and well-regulated. According to him, such measures enhance the aesthetic appeal of the surroundings and ensure effective communication through well-structured advertisements.

He advised practitioners to keep outdoor advertising spaces free of disputes and to strictly adhere to regulations, particularly during election periods, to avoid crises. He acknowledged the significant role that these practitioners play in the community.

While appreciating the contributions of outdoor advertising practitioners to Oyo State’s development, the Acting Governor encouraged them to seize business opportunities within the state. He emphasized that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has fostered an environment conducive to business growth, innovation, and ease of doing business. Lawal reaffirmed the state’s commitment to expanding its economy and supporting business ventures.

Lawal remarked, “It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to you all as you gather here in Oyo State, the Pacesetter State, for the 39th edition of your Annual General Meeting. Your presence reflects our shared vision for progress, innovation, and excellence in the outdoor advertising industry.

“Oyo State has long been recognized as a leader in cultural heritage and economic development. From the historic city of Ibadan, which stands as a beacon of intellectual and political significance, to our thriving agricultural and industrial sectors, Oyo State has always been at the forefront of Nigeria’s growth and advancement. We are a state rich in history, innovation, and resilience, and we are proud to be the Pacesetter State—a title that embodies our commitment to setting standards and leading by example.

“As you engage in discussions during this AGM, I highlight the importance of collaboration between your association and the government. The outdoor advertising industry shapes our cities’ visual landscape, and it is essential that we work together to ensure this landscape is vibrant, dynamic, and well-regulated.

“We are committed to maintaining a sanitized and organized advertising space in Oyo State. To achieve this, we must hold practitioners accountable to the highest standards of professionalism and compliance. The structures you erect should not only communicate messages effectively but also enhance the aesthetic beauty of their surroundings. It is our collective responsibility to ensure these structures positively contribute to the visual environment, adding to the charm and appeal of our cities and towns.

“During election season, the role of outdoor advertising becomes even more significant. We must collaborate to ensure that the advertising space remains orderly, rules are strictly adhered to, and our state remains a model of civility and decorum during this critical period. Oyo State is open for business, and we are committed to creating an environment that supports growth, innovation, and ease of doing business. We value your contributions to our state’s development, and we are here to support you in every way possible. I encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities our state offers and to join us on this exciting journey to build a brighter and more prosperous future for all.”

In his remarks, the Director-General of the Oyo State Signage and Advertising Agency (OYSAA), Oludolapo Eso, mentioned that the agency is conducting rigorous sanitation exercises to maintain a clean and organized outdoor ecosystem in Oyo State. He added that the agency would soon undertake the proper enumeration and reorganization of billboards, removal of dilapidated and substandard structures, and address the clustering issue that has affected the state.

Earlier, the President of the Out of Home Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN), Mr. Sola Akinsiku, thanked the state government for creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

The Acting Governor was accompanied by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade; Chairman of the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State, Mrs. Dotun Olaitan; and the Director-General of the Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-economic Development, Dr. Morohunkola Thomas, among other dignitaries.