ADVAN raises concerns over ARCON’s Nigeria Stock Image Bank, advocating for advertiser representation and free-market principles for the initiative’s success.

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN) has expressed concerns over the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria’s (ARCON) plan to establish a Nigeria Stock Image Bank (NSIB).

Also read: ADVAN announces formal withdrawal from heads of advertising sectorial group (HASG)

In a press statement issued yesterday, the association highlighted the absence of advertiser representation on ARCON’s committee formed to lay the groundwork for the NSIB.

ADVAN stressed that it does not have a representative on the committee, questioning ARCON’s decision to exclude advertisers from the process.

They noted that any advertiser on the panel would be acting in an organisational capacity, not as a representative of the wider advertising industry.

The association advocates for a more inclusive approach in developing the image bank.

ADVAN believes that such a platform, which will facilitate commercial interactions and house proprietary works, should involve all relevant regulatory bodies.

This inclusion, they argue, is vital for ensuring that regulations are constitutionally overseen. It would also help avoid introducing multi-level taxation in an already overregulated industry.

ADVAN firmly stated that the NSIB must not interfere with advertisers’ rights to select their own vendors and partners for legal business activities.

They cautioned against any system that would limit these rights, reaffirming the importance of a free-market approach.

The association also warned that the image bank should attract participation by offering value, rather than enforcing mandatory usage through unconstitutional means.

While supporting industry growth, ADVAN expressed disappointment over the lack of thorough research and inclusive stakeholder engagement in ARCON’s policy-making process.

They noted that despite their acknowledged presence, their contributions are often overlooked.

The association remains committed to supporting stakeholder-inclusive, well-researched regulations for the continued development of the marketing and communication industry.

ARCON recently inaugurated a 10-man committee, chaired by photographer Kelechi Amadi Obi, to oversee the NSIB’s development.

The initiative aims to boost local content and revolutionise the African media landscape.

Rtn. Victor Ojelabi

Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.