The Nigerian Advertising Regulatory Council (ARCON) plans to regulate the use of computer-generated imagery in advertising.

Dr Olalekan Fadolapo, director general of the ARCON, disclosed this at a recent Advertising Standard Panel Stakeholders’ Forum in Lagos.

He noted that the move was aimed at promoting local content, maintaining industry integrity, and driving economic development.

According to Fadolapo, the forum discussed ethical standards and compliance with advertising laws within the industry.

He said, “The regulatory body has declared the prohibition of such materials surrounding the proliferation of computer-generated imagery in advertising. It has stressed the need for advertising agencies to provide verifiable information of Nigerian models featured in campaigns.”

He added that the intention was to ensure the protection of local talents and preserve Nigeria’s national interests.

Fadolapo emphasised the importance of stakeholders in the advertising sector acquainting themselves with the Nigerian Code of Advertising.

“This familiarity is crucial to understanding regulatory obligations, ensuring compliance, and following guidelines before submitting their materials for review,” he expounded.

He emphasised the importance of self-regulation and adherence to copyright laws within the advertising industry to foster ARCON’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for promoting ethical advertising standard practices.

He vowed that ARCON would continue to curb advertising violations and enforce regulatory measures on all digital platforms.

In her keynote address, the Chairman of the Advertising Standard Panel, Mrs Omowunmi Owodunni, stated that lack of ethics had made practitioners and stakeholders not comply with the ambits of the law.

“For our advertising industry to meet international standards, practitioners must be decent and legal in our approach,” she maintained.

Owodunni cautioned against the unauthorised proliferation of digital advertisements, emphasising that the regulatory body would take strict action against individuals and organisations engaged in such illegal activities.

“During the vetting process, third-party and independent assessments with verifiable information are necessary to support advertising claims,” she noted.

Owodunni further clarified that although the advertising code undergoes periodic reviews, creative content must adhere to legal standards, be substantiated, and be sensitive to laws.

On her part, the Director of Regulations, ARCON, Mrs Martha Onyebuchi, lamented that a lot of advert materials were full of misinformation that could not be substantiated.

She noted that practitioners would be penalised for such unethical behaviour. According to Onyebuchi, stakeholders should uphold the law and not breach it.

“ARCON is not regulating to strangle the advertising industry but to promote creativity and support local content,” Onyebuchi added.

Telecommunications services provider, Globacom, has admonished Nigerian workers to reflect on more ways of contributing further to the growth of the country.

In a solidarity message on the occasion of the 2024 International Workers’ Day, the company noted that Nigerian workers were resilient in spite of the challenges they encounter in the course of discharging their duties.

The telecommunications giant further noted that the story of Nigeria cannot be adequately chronicled without acknowledging the immense contributions of workers, both in the public and private sectors.

The day is observed on May 1 yearly in recognition of the contributions of workers all over the world and to advance fairer and more sustainable future by advocating for workers’ rights.

“We salute Nigerian workers on this day and commend them for the hard work, commitment, resourcefulness and industry which are essential for the growth of the economy of any nation,” Globacom said.

CWG Plc has announced a significant milestone in its commitment to delivering value to shareholders. Following a thorough review of the company’s financial performance and outlook, the Board of Directors has approved a substantial increase of 400per cent in dividend payout to shareholders.

This decision reflects CWG’s confidence in its financial stability, growth trajectory, and ability to generate sustainable returns. By enhancing the dividend payout, CWG aims to reward shareholders for their continued trust and support while reaffirming its commitment to creating long-term value.

Mr. Philip Obioha, Chairman of the Board of Directors at CWG Plc, said, “The decision to approve a 400% increase in dividend payout underscores our confidence in CWG’s performance and outlook. We are dedicated to delivering value to our shareholders and believe that this significant dividend increase is a testament to our commitment to shareholder value creation.”

This increase in dividend payout aligns with CWG’s strategic objectives to prioritize shareholder interests and maintain strong financial discipline. The Board remains committed to prudent financial management and sustainable growth, ensuring that CWG continues to be a reliable investment for shareholders.

As CWG continues to execute its growth strategy and expand its presence in the market, the Board anticipates that the increased dividend payout will further strengthen investor confidence and support CWG’s vision for the future.