The federal government on Tuesday inaugurated the newly constituted Advertising Offences Tribunal.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, at the inauguration of the tribunal in Abuja, said it must be seen as a fair and impartial institution.

Mr Idris said the inauguration was part of the federal government’s efforts to strengthen regulation, promote professionalism and ensure greater integrity in Nigeria’s advertising and marketing communications industry.

He described the development as an important step toward building a more professional and responsible advertising industry.

“Let us build an advertising industry that commands creativity, earns trust, and upholds responsibility,” Mr Idris said.

The minister said the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) Act No. 23 of 2022 expanded the council’s regulatory powers and provided for the establishment of the tribunal to adjudicate offences under the Act and relevant advertising regulations and codes.

He urged the new panel, led by Justice Cecilia Olatoregun, to carry out its duties with integrity, independence and fairness.

“Every matter that comes before you should be considered on its merits, without fear or favour, affection or ill will. The Tribunal must be, and must be seen to be, a fair and impartial institution,” he said.

The minister congratulated the chairman and members of the tribunal, assuring them of the ministry’s continued support for ARCON and efforts to build a globally competitive advertising industry.

Speaking earlier, the Director-General of ARCON, Dr Olalekan Fadolapo, described the inauguration as a major step in strengthening regulation and compliance in the advertising industry.

“The Advertising Offences Tribunal is a big opportunity for the Nigerian advertising industry.

“It is the first of its kind in the world because Nigeria has taken a proactive step not only to legislate on advertising, but also to put structures and frameworks in place,” he said.

The Chairman of the Advertising Offences Tribunal, Justice Olatoregun, pledged that the new panel would discharge its responsibilities with integrity, fairness and professionalism.

“It is a great honour to be called upon to serve our country, and we take this responsibility very seriously. You have asked us to work with integrity, and that is what we are going to do,” she said.

Members of the tribunal are Musa Attah, SAN; Merga Kachina, Esq; Dr Ken Ikpe and Hajia Sa’a Ibrahim.

(NAN)