The Managing Director of Shade Cover, Obong (Engr.) Donald Bassey, has pledged support for professional development and regulatory compliance in the advertising industry, as the Advertising Practitioners Association, Uyo Chapter (APAUCH), intensifies efforts to secure greater recognition for certified practitioners in Akwa Ibom State.
Bassey made the commitment on Wednesday when the leadership of APAUCH, led by its Chairman, Mr Uwem Archibong, paid him a courtesy visit to congratulate him on his emergence as the chapter’s Practitioner of the Month and discuss issues affecting the profession.
He described professional collaboration as essential to business growth and industry development, noting that sustained engagement among practitioners would promote cooperation, mutual support and shared progress.
The Shade Cover chief executive expressed appreciation for the recognition and pledged to sustain his relationship with the association while contributing to its efforts to strengthen advertising practice in the state. He also committed to sponsoring at least one delegate to the forthcoming National Advertising Conference.
Earlier, Archibong said Bassey was selected for the recognition based on his professional conduct, financial commitment to the association and relationship with the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON).
He commended the award recipient for consistently paying his dues and maintaining active engagement with the association, describing such commitment as important to the growth and cohesion of the professional body.
Archibong also raised concerns over the engagement of individuals without the requisite advertising qualifications and certification in advertising-related positions within government. He said APAUCH was seeking greater recognition for qualified practitioners and their consideration for relevant appointments, including an advisory role on advertising matters in the state government.
The chairman called on industry stakeholders to support the chapter’s participation in the National Advertising Conference scheduled for November 11 to 13 in Abuja, noting that rising transportation and accommodation costs had made attendance at national professional events increasingly difficult for members.
A member of the delegation, Ms Alice Odoh, who nominated Bassey for the award, recalled his previous financial support for the association, particularly during major professional events.
Another member of the delegation, Mrs Janet Moshinwa, who heads ARCON’s operations in Akwa Ibom State, congratulated Bassey on the recognition and urged advertising practitioners to uphold professional standards and meet their regulatory obligations.
