GLG Communications, in partnership with The Guardian, has unveiled the 2024 PR Power List, showcasing Nigeria’s 50 most influential PR and communications professionals who are driving innovation and impact across Nigeria and the diaspora.

“This year’s list was meticulously curated by a diverse jury of seasoned experts,” said Omawumi Ogbe, Managing Partner at GLG Communications.

“We harnessed the invaluable insights of our local jury and leveraged the “local ignorance” of our international jury, providing a unique outside-in perspective. The 2024 list features some familiar faces from last year and new entrants who have distinguished themselves in the last 12 months.” she added.

“Being part of the PR Power List jury is a humbling experience. I’m deeply impressed by the caliber of talent and the remarkable contributions of the Nigerian PR professionals shortlisted. It is a privilege to be part of the process that recognizes and celebrates their exceptional work.” says Andras Sztaniszlav, CEO of the International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO) and President of the Hungarian Public Relations Association (MPRSZ).

The PR Power List is a groundbreaking initiative by GLG Communications in collaboration with The Guardian. It coincides with World PR Day, celebrated annually in over 60 countries on July 16. From corporate communications and public affairs to social impact and more, see the top 50 professionals who made this year’s list.

 RISING VOICES

This category spotlights a dynamic ensemble of PR professionals redefining the communications landscape in Nigeria. It includes emerging leaders who consistently demonstrate exceptional talent, creativity, and innovation, as well as seasoned practitioners finally experiencing their well-deserved breakout moments. 

1. Adaoha Njemanze

Principal Consultant, Novva Media

Adaoha Vivian Njemanze is a Public Relations and Communications Executive with over a decade of experience in Public Relations, Corporate Communications Strategy, Branding, and Media Relations. She is the Founder and Lead Consultant at NOVVA Media & Communications.

2. Ayodele Aburo

Head of Integrated Communications, Nigeria Breweries PLC

An award-winning corporate affairs professional, corporate compere, creative writer and published author with over 15 years of varied and extensive experience across diverse industries. With a first-class degree in communications and a Master’s degree in Management, Ayodele has won numerous awards, including the 2022 Most Valuable Outstanding Indigenous Perception Manager of the Year (female) at Young Achievers Nigeria Awards; 9to5Chick’s 2022 top 100 leading career women in Nigeria and 2023 Industry Change Makers Awards.

3. Bolanle Olukoju

Commissioner of Communications, Kwara State

Bola is an exceptional communications professional with a diverse background spanning public relations, broadcasting, government affairs, grassroots advocacy, and the entertainment industry. She also possesses a deep understanding of governance and policy-making. She has established three multimedia communities dedicated to providing women and teenagers in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa access to quality information and practical solutions.

4. Chidera Akwuba

Regional Head Government & Public Relations Sub-Saharan Africa at Glovo

 Chidera Akwuba is a distinguished Government & Public Relations professional currently serving as Head of Government & Public Relations for Sub-Saharan Africa at Glovo, where she drives strategic initiatives, builds stakeholder relationships, and supports the company’s growth. Before her recent role, she was Senior Manager in charge of transformation and PAG at Henkel Nigeria. Chidera was Named one of the top 100 career women in Nigeria in 2022 and one of the 50 most inspiring women in Nigeria by BusinessDay in 2023.

5. Crusoe Osagie

Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media Projects

Osagie, a journalist and communication expert, is the immediate past Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy to the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki. He played a key role in the successful Edo 2020 gubernatorial campaign. He has worked as a media, PR and advertising adviser to multinational companies, including the Dangote Group, Notore Industries Plc, and The Biostadt Company.

6. Dafe Ivwurie

Head Brand and Corporate Communications at Providus Bank

Dafe Ivwurie is currently the Head of Brand and Corporate Communications at Providus Bank. With experience from previous roles at Keystone Bank Limited and Vanguard Newspaper, Safe boasts a robust skill set that includes Marketing Communications, Strategic Communications, Advertising, Reputation Management, and more.

7. Emmanuella Nnadozie

Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Mavin Records

Emmanuella Nnadozie, an award-winning growth marketing executive, has earned accolades at Loeries, Ads Of The World, African Cristal, and LAIF. With experience in Entertainment, Media, Advertising, PR, Tech, and FMCG, she has shaped Afrobeats brand identities and delivered impactful marketing solutions in Nigeria. 

8. Enakeno Umuteme

Head of Marketing and Communications – PalmPay

With over a decade of experience gained from end-to-end account management of leading multinational companies, Enakeno is a brand marketing and communications strategist and an integrated communications planning expert. He has a keen understanding of the PR landscape and a pristine grasp of data and analytics.

9. Ferdinand Ekeoma

Special Adviser for Media and Publicity to Abia State Governor, Alex Otti

Ferdinand Ekeoma brings a wealth of expertise and experience in media and communication to his role as the Special Adviser for Media and Publicity. Having worked as a media consultant in the past, he has honed his skills in strategic communication, media management, and public relations.

10. Hakama Sidi-Ali:

The CBN’s First Female Spokesperson.

Before her appointment, Hakama Sidi Ali was Deputy Director in the Corporate Communications Department of the Apex Bank. She is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPMN), and the Africa Development Studies Centre (ADSC).

11. Nene Bejide

Founder and Principal Consultant at Blanche Aigle

Nene Bejide is a seasoned communications professional and the lead consultant at Blanche Aigle Communications, a premier PR agency based in Nigeria. With extensive expertise in brand reputation management and strategic communications planning, she is gaining influence for her contributions to the industry.

12. Omotayo Azeez-Abiodun

Group Public Relations Manager, Tolaram Group

She is solely responsible for executing Public Relations, communications, and marketing support for the brands under the group- Kellogg’s, Colgate, Lush Hair, Munch It, etc. She has been at the forefront of the brands in the group for competitiveness for almost a decade, leveraging resources, reputation, and relationships.

13. Rick Nwanso

CEO, ETH Communications

Rick Nwanso began his media career in 2008 at RED Media Africa/The Future Project Africa. His media expertise includes consulting for the Nigeria Official Selection Committee for the Oscars. ETH Communications clients include OPPO Mobile, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Paradigm Initiative, and OctaFX, among others.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

These are professionals who have built platforms and communities that foster growth in the PR and communication fields. They are the architects of nerve centers where industry professionals come together to enhance their skills and inspire others. These platforms help PR pros showcase their works and clients, as well as get visibility as experts in their fields. 

14. Adedoyin Jaiyesimi

Co-founder, The Comms Avenue

Adedoyin Jaiyesimi is a Communications Advisor and Co-Founder of The Comms Avenue, a capacity-building platform and mission-driven community for African communications professionals. With over 12 years of experience, she has consulted for international organizations and top corporate executives, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

15. Ayodotun Akinfenwa

Global Head of Communications, The Elevation Church

Ayodotun is a multi-talented professional in Marketing, Communications, and PR. She has 17 years of experience managing various brands, from International FMCGs to small/medium-tier brands in Tech, Health, and more. An astute trainer and founder of Lifestyle Hues Brand Consulting, she has been training business owners since 2017 and is also one of the globally endorsed Canva Verified Experts.

16. John Ajayi

Editor-in-Chief & Publisher, Marketing Edge Magazine

John Ajayi is a veteran Journalist and Publisher of Nigeria’s leading marketing and advertising magazine, Marketing Edge. An experienced professional with a demonstrated history of working in the marketing and advertising industry, he directs the magazine’s operations and hosts the annual Marketing Edge Stakeholders Summit and Awards.

17. Joshua Ajayi

Publisher, Brand Communicator

Joshua Ajayi is the Chief Executive Officer of Awesome Communications and Publisher of Brand Communicator. Over the years, he has led the company to become the leading marketing and advertising publication in Nigeria providing news, insights, and analysis on branding, marketing communications, and the advertising industry.

18. Linda Akhigbe

Senior Special Adviser to the President on Strategic Communications / Communications Adviser to the President of ECOWAS Commission

Linda Akhigbe is an experienced Senior Reporter and Anchor with a demonstrated history of working in the broadcast media industry. She also has demonstrable skills in Storytelling, Journalism, Media and Public Relations. The seasoned journalist was recently appointed to serve as the Communications Adviser to the President of the ECOWAS Commission.

19. Tolulope Olorundero

CEO & Principal Consultant, Mosron Communications, & Founder, Nigerian Women in PR

Tolulope Olorundero is a versatile B2B public relations and strategic communications consultant. With exemplary skills garnered over 16 years of business experience, she directs the operations of Mosron Communications, a boutique public relations consultancy in Lagos, Nigeria, where she acts as Founder and Principal Consultant. She is also the founder and board chair of the Nigerian Women in PR.

CHANGEMAKERS

These are PR and communications experts, agency founders, c-suite executives, and business leaders who have earned recognition as some of the most influential figures within the Nigerian PR industry. Their expertise and influence have propelled them forward, leaving an indelible mark on the profession and inspiring the next generation of PR and communication practitioners. 

20. Adebola Williams

Co-founder & Group CEO, RED | For Africa

Adebola Williams, a media entrepreneur, political consultant, and speaker, played a pivotal role in three African presidents’ election victories. As co-founder and Group CEO of RED, he oversees a leading youth media portfolio, including Red Media Africa and YNaija. He is recognized globally as a UN Global Champion for Generation Unlimited. 

21. Bola Balogun

Founder and CEO, The Glam Brand Agency

Bola Balogun is a pioneering force in Nigeria’s lifestyle and beauty public relations consultancy. As the founder of Glam Brand Agency, a distinguished firm dedicated to positioning global beauty and lifestyle brands for exponential growth, Bola delivers effective brand strategies and exceptional public relations services. From MAC to Lancome, Estee Lauder and more, when considering major beauty brands with footprints in Nigeria and across Africa, it’s likely that Glam Brand Agency played a pivotal role in their market introduction. Bola is also a supporter of many young PR practitioners and entrepreneurs who have gone on to start their agencies or ventured into the beauty PR niche.

22. Bolaji Abimbola

Managing Director, Integrated Indigo Limited

Bolaji Abimbola was named PR Practitioner of the Year in 2022. Integrated Indigo Limited’s PR company, where he serves as Managing Director and CEO, won the 2021 “PR Agency of the Year” at the 2021 LaPRIGA Awards. With an impressive career of over two decades in marketing communications, Bolaji has mastered the craft of brand reputation management.

23. Bridget Oyefeso Odusami

Head, Brand and Marketing and Non-Executive Director at Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Limited

With 25+ years of global experience in brand strategy, digital marketing, and communications, Bridget is a fellow of NIMN and holds memberships in APCON, CIM, NIPR, and APRA. She serves as a Non-Executive Director at Stanbic IBTC Asset Management and is active in NGOs and volunteering.

24. Caroline Oghuma

Executive Head, Corporate Affairs, Multichoice Nigeria

2019 Brandcom PR Manager of the Year award winner Caroline Oghuma is the Executive Head of Corporate Affairs at Multichoice Nigeria, where she’s worked since 2014. Before joining Multichoice, she worked with MTN and Stanbic IBTC. In 2020, she won the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria’s Pay TV Most Effective Corporate Communications Professional Award.

25. Chinwendu Sarah Ohakpougwu

Group Head, Marketing and Communications, TrustBanc Group

Chinwendu Ohakpougwu is a seasoned financial communications professional with expertise in PR, marketing, and crisis management. Recognized among Nigeria’s Top 100 Career Women and Top 35 under 35 Marketing Communications Professionals, she has certifications from CIM, NIPR, and Cannes Lions Nano MBAs.

26. Clifford Akpolo

Head, Group Communications and Partnerships, Nigerian Exchange Group

Clifford played a crucial role in the Nigerian Stock Exchange’s demutualization and rebranding to NGX Group. He has led campaigns at Access Bank Plc and GIZ. As Head of Group Communications and Partnerships at Nigerian Exchange Group, he oversees brand vision, marketing, sustainability, public relations and protocol services.

27. Dr. Olubukola (Bukky) George-Taylor

Founder/CEO, Robert Taylor Media

Dr. Olubukola (Bukky) George-Taylor, founder of Robert Taylor Media, is a seasoned strategic communications expert with 17 years of experience. Her expertise includes PR, media relations, crisis management, corporate communications, and influencer marketing. She has represented clients like UnitedMasters, Access Bank, Moet Hennessy, Facebook Africa, and more.

28. Edidiong Uwemakpan

Vice President, Communications and Public Relations, Moniepoint

Edidiong leads communications at Moniepoint Inc., one of Africa’s largest fintech startups, serving 1.9 million businesses. As VP of Communications and PR, she manages internal/external communications, global activations, and brand/marketing. With a decade in renewables, telecoms, FMCG, and tech, Didi has impacted Budweiser, KFC, and Bharti Airtel among others.

29. Edward Israel-Ayide

Founder, Carpe Diem Solutions

A PR and marketing communications expert, Edward is the founder and head of Communications and Strategy at Carpe Diem Solutions. He leads a team that provides strategic counsel and helps clients build trust, manage reputations, and create culturally connected brands. 

30. Efosa Aiyevbomwan

PR and Publicity Manager for sub-Saharan Africa at Netflix

For over 15 years, Efosa Aiyevbomwan has worked across the Integrated Marketing Communications spectrum for multinational brands across different sectors, including broadcasting/media, entertainment, oil and gas, FMCG, Financial Technology, and transportation.

31. Elizabeth Osho

CEO of SoMedia Solutions Group

Elizabeth leads a top-tier Communication and PR agency in Washington, D.C., and Lagos, Nigeria. She excels in brand management, strategy, digital marketing, and lifestyle consultancy. Her 2024 book “Who Do You Think You Are” has achieved Amazon bestseller status, and she has expanded her client roster to include leading brands like Pernod Ricard, Netflix, Disney, Marvel Studio, and Lancôme.

32. Hadiza Oyewumi (Formerly Olaosebikan)

Group Head, Executive/Internal Communications and Customer Care, Bank of Industry.

Hadiza is a media professional with nearly two decades of experience. She possesses extensive leadership experience in corporate communications, broadcast journalism, and public relations, with key accomplishments in developing and implementing robust communications strategies and projects on the continent. Hadiza is a Mass Communication graduate with an MBA from the Netherlands Business School (BSN).

33. Itiola Omobolaji Ikudinakin

Lead Consultant, Living Touches Limited

Itiola Ikudinakin is a seasoned brand, marketing, and strategy expert with years of experience in brand management, building and strategy, marketing communications, Public relations, media, advertising, and external communications. She is armed with leadership skills, adequate human resource optimization, and top-notch execution, with a proven track record of over a decade in leadership positions across different industries.

34. Jide Sipe

Group Head, Brand Transformation, Bank of Industry (Fmr. Head of Marketing & Corporate Communication at Ecobank Nigeria)

Jide is an experienced brand expert. He was the Head of Marketing and Corporate Communication at Ecobank Nigeria before recently joining the Bank of Industry as the Group Head of Brand Transformation. At Ecobank, he was responsible for implementing strategic PR initiatives and collaborations to ensure that the Bank remains the go-to Bank for Pan African Trade and transactions.

35. Latti Ronke Bamisedun

Lead Consultant, BWL Agency

Ronke is the lead consultant of BWL Agency, an award-winning brand development and strategic communications agency based in Lagos, Nigeria. A highly seasoned marketing professional, she has consulted for several multinational companies, including Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Universal Music Group, Radisson Hotel Group, Budweiser, Bacardi Group, Mastercard, and Travelstart.

36. Mabel Adeteye

Head, Brands & Marketing Communications, Wema Bank

Mabel Adeteye, a Forbes Communications Council member, is a brand communications expert with 15 years of experience in strategic communication, brand management, and PR. She has led high-profile initiatives for local and international brands and holds accreditations from CIPR, NIPR, and CIM, UK.

37. Michelle Atagana

Head of Communications and Public Relations, Africa at Spotify

Mich Atagana brings extensive digital expertise to her role. Formerly at Google South Africa and as Editor of Burn Media, she managed Memeburn and Ventureburn. With a Masters in New Media, she’s completing a PhD on social media’s impact on extremism. Mich has spoken at global tech events and served as a GSMA Awards judge. 

38. Niyi Aderibigbe

Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Transcorp Hotels Plc

Over the past 12 years, Niyi has told brand stories across different industries, including Financial Services, Power, Hospitality, Media, and Advertising. He currently heads Marketing and Corporate Communications at Transcorp Hotels Plc, where he crafts compelling narratives to foster the growth and expansion of the leading hospitality brand.

39. Ngozi Emeagi

Director, Communications – Data and Analytics at London Stock Exchange Group, UK.

Ngozi Emeagi is a strategic communications professional with extensive experience in Financial Services and most recently, Insurance. The former Senior Consultant at Powerscourt and Imperial College London graduate was listed in PR Week’s UK Power Book of 2024 as one of the most PR practitioners in Britain.

40. Nkiru Olumide-Ojo

Africa Regions Executive Head, Marketing Corporate Communications, Standard Bank Group

With over 20 years in corporate reputation management, the Kingston University of London graduate is celebrated for her achievements, including BusinessDay’s “50 Inspiring Nigerian Women” in 2022 and the Best Corporate Brand Manager Award in 2017. Founder of women’s empowerment platform, The Lighthouse Network, Nkiru launched two new books in June 2024 and was a juror at the 2024 Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity Awards.

41. Odion Aleobua

Chief Executive Officer, Modion Communications

Odion Aleobua is an award-winning Public Relations and Marketing Communications professional with nearly two decades of experience. He founded Modion Communications in 2015, providing strategic advisory to various sectors. Odion also convenes the “Insurance Meets Tech” conference, shaping Nigeria’s insurance landscape, and has received multiple industry awards.

42. Olayiwola Osoba

Vice President of Marketing & Corporate Communications, Zone

Renowned for pioneering innovative communication and digital marketing strategies, Osoba has solidified Zone’s position as Africa’s leading blockchain payment infrastructure company through visionary leadership. His expertise, drawn from substantial roles at Tek Experts, Andela, and Intel Corporation, has seen him steer companies through market fluctuations with agility and unwavering focus on sustainable growth.

43. Olufemi Soneye

Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd

Olufemi Soneye, a seasoned journalist with global experience, heads NNPC’s Corporate Communications team, enhancing brand penetration, strategic initiatives, and stakeholder relations. He reforms NNPC’s public communications with innovative strategies, ensuring timely information release through press releases, media coverage, interviews, and press conferences critical to Nigeria’s economy.

44. Ori Rewane

Director, Corporate Development, Chapel Hill Denham

Ori is an investor relations & communications specialist with over 20 years of experience in financial services across Africa and Europe. His background includes roles at Swiss Re in Zurich and London and Citigate Dewe Rogerson in London. He holds an LLB from the University of Hertfordshire and an LLM from the University of Dundee, with executive training from Harvard, INSEAD, and Columbia Business School.  

45. Otega Ogra

Group Head, Brand & Corporate Communications BUA Group | Snr. SA to the Nigerian President on Digital Communications, Strategy/New Media.     

As the Group Head of Corporate Communications at BUA, Otega leads strategic communications and brand management for the group and its subsidiaries. A seasoned communications expert, Otega previously served as Head of Corporate Communications at Wemations, Strategy, and New Media while continuing his role at BUA. He also served as Head of Corporate Communications at Wema Bank and Corporate Communications Manager at Guaranty Trust Bank.

46. Rasheed Bolarinwa

Head Corporate Communications, Polaris Bank

Mr. Bolarinwa is a distinguished Nigerian corporate communications professional with over 26 years of experience in journalism, public relations, marketing, and strategic brand management across various sectors, including insurance, HR, consulting, and banking. He is a fellow of NIMN and a member of NIPR and is known for his impactful contributions to the profession.

47. Tobi Demuren

Global Head of Advocacy Marketing at LinkedIn

Tobi Demuren stands as a beacon of innovation and compassion in the worlds of technology and advertising. At LinkedIn, the world’s foremost professional networking platform, Tobi leads global advocacy marketing for the company’s advertising business, shaping the future of B2B marketing. He was a significant contributor to LinkedIn’s Black creators initiatives at the recently held Cannes Lions Festival and continues to drive diversity in communications.

48. Tolu Alero Ladipo.

Group Head  Marketing and Corporate Communications, UBA

Tolu Alero Ladipo has over 17 years of experience in Strategy Development, Public and Media Relations, and Integrated Marketing. Her illustrious career spans various establishments, including the World Intellectual Property Organization, the Nigerian Institute on International Affairs, Standard Bank, Union Bank, Smile Communications, Old Mutual Nigeria, and UBA.

49. Victoria Uwadoka

Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Manager, Nestle

Victoria leads Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability at Nestle Nigeria. She chairs NECA’s Corporate Communications Committee and is on the NPAP Steering Board and the FBRA Technical Committee. Recognized on the GLG PR Power List 2023 and 2nd Runner-Up, Africa’s Sustainability Practitioner of the Year at the 2023 SERAS CSR Awards. 

50. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya

Group Managing Director at CMC Connect (Perception Managers)

Yomi “YBO” Badejo-Okusanya is a distinguished figure in Marketing Communications with over 34 years of experience. He founded CMC Connect LLP in 1992 and has held prominent roles, including the immediate past President of the African Public Relations Association (APRA). 2023’s PR Power List Icon of the Year, YBO has bagged several awards, including the Brandcom Awards Hall of Fame and, most recently, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Diamond Lifetime Achievement for elevating Africa in the global PR landscape.

THE FOURTH ESTATE AWARD 

As the name implies, this category celebrates media houses embodying the “Fourth Estate of the Realm,” acting as a vital pillar of democracy and a watchdog for society. It recognizes traditional and digital platforms that have consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving the public interest over the past 12 months (July 2023 – June 2024). Selected honorees have not only excelled in reporting news but have actively championed Truth and Transparency, fearlessly Amplified Marginalized Voices, Sparked Meaningful Industry Dialogue, Driven Positive Change and provided platforms for PR practitioners to execute their work effectively. 

Arise News (TELEVISION)

Arise is a prominent global television network known for its comprehensive news coverage, in-depth analysis, and insightful reporting on politics, business, and current affairs. In the last 12 months, the network’s commitment to journalistic excellence has been reflected in its diverse and objective programming, which includes breaking news, investigative reports, exclusive interviews, and feature stories.

The Punch (PRINT)

The Punch is one of Nigeria’s oldest, most influential, and widely read newspapers. Founded in 1970, The Punch is respected for its ethical journalism, investigative reporting, and comprehensive national and international news coverage. The Punch has built a reputation for its fearless and independent approach to news reporting, often holding those in power accountable and shining a light on issues of public interest.

NairaMetrics (DIGITAL)

NairaMetrics is a leading digital financial and business analysis platform in Nigeria, renowned for its comprehensive coverage of economic, financial, and business news. Founded by Ugochukwu “Ugodre” Obi-Chukwu in 2013, NairaMetrics has rapidly grown to become a trusted source of financial information, providing readers with in-depth analysis, news updates, and insightful commentary on a wide range of professional and lifestyle topics.