COVID-19: Advertising Business Low As APCON Suspends Services

Oru Leonard

As the incidences of Corona Virus Pandemic increased, leading to the lockdown of Abuja, Lagos and Ogun states by President Muhammadu Buhari, for two weeks with effect from March 30th, 2020 during his nationwide broadcast on Sunday the 29th of March, 2020.

Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON), in compliance with the FGN’s action, temporarily suspended its operations. This action has led to low Advertising related business activities.

Stakeholders in the advertising business, agreed that the suspension has  affected their activities but noted that its for the health of the public and the nation which should have an over riding interest.

The Chairman of the Advertising Practitioners’ Association, Abuja Chapter, Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim, who is also the MD/ CEO of Rocky Diamonds Resourcery Limited, said that even though the nation was not ready for the lock down, it is for our own good to comply and be ready for any action the Federal Government is taking to minimize the effects of the corona virus pandemic in the country.

Alhaji Ibrahim who noted that most APCON members are in the private sector, advised the Registrar and management of APCON to also review closing dates of dues and fees payable or charges accruing as a result of the lock down.

According to a statement made available to the press on Tuesday, March 31, 2020, the Acting Registrar/CEO of APCON, Mrs Ijedi Iyoha stated “APCON is determined to comply with appropriate measures/directives by the Federal Government in curtailing the scourge. However, we implore the general public and our highly esteemed clients to take advantage of our relevant online vetting platform in accessing our services for the time being”.

She also appealed to all stakeholders for understanding and cooperation as they practice good hygiene and take precautionary measures in these trying times as the country battles to defeat the pandemic.