X3M Ideas, SO&U, Noah’s Ark, Others Recognised At AAAN Gala Night

The Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN)  has recognised and celebrated the creativity, innovation, and achievements of Nigeria’s advertising industry with leading agencies including X3M Ideas, SO&U, and Noah’s Ark Communications, recognised for their contributions to the field.

The Gala Night,  held on Saturday to mark the end of the 52nd Annual General Meeting and Congress of the AAAN in Ibadan, spotlighted emerging talent and honoured key contributions within the industry. The event marked the culmination of a three-day gathering that combined business deliberations, knowledge exchange, and community building.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Rising Star Award to five young professionals nominated from leading agencies. Among those recognised were Ayoade Omolola of X3M Ideas, Chidera Okpala of SO&U, and Faruq Alimi of Noah’s Ark. They were joined by Deborah Folaranmi of Wunderman Thompson and Leah Afolabi of Leo Burnett, all acknowledged for their creativity, dedication, and potential to shape the industry’s future.

The mood turned solemn during a posthumous tribute to the late Suleman Omone-Ogie Momoh, who was honoured for his outstanding service and leadership. A moment of silence was observed by members of the association as they reflected on his legacy and contributions to the sector.

Earlier in the day, AAAN held its business session, of which a key development was the induction of eight new agencies as associate members. The new entrants, spanning traditional, experiential, and digital marketing, were welcomed as part of the association’s continued expansion.

The AGM began on Thursday with a fireside chat with the Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Lekan Fadolapo. On Friday, there were keynote addresses by Idowu Akinde, managing director of Impact Hub Lagos, and Bolanle Osotule, general manager and head of Brand Marketing and Advertising at Airtel Nigeria. The day also included panel discussions that explored trends in innovation, governance and the evolving landscape of marketing communications.

In his closing remarks, AAAN President Lanre Adisa described the Congress as “a time of reflection, renewal, and resolve.” He noted that the sessions had reinforced the association’s commitment to fostering a forward-looking, inclusive, and self-aware industry. He praised the participation of young professionals and emphasised the importance of continuing conversations around creativity, regulation and agency growth.