ARCON Bans Use of Foreign Models and Voice-over Artists in Adverts

 The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has banned the use of foreign models and Voice-over artists in marketing adverts. This ban is set to take effect from 1st October 2022. In a press release, ARCON Director General, Dr Olalekan Fadolapo stated that the ban was in line with the Federal Government’s policy to develop local talent and inclusive economic growth for sectors of the country, including advertising. Dr Fadolapo urged all advertising agencies, media houses and the general public to take note of this ban. The Director General also added that ongoing campaigns will be allowed to run out their terms but subsequent reapplications would not be granted.

Reacting to the news of the ban, president of the Association of Voice-Over Artists of Nigeria (AVOA) Segun Arinze revealed in a press release that the ban is a welcome development. The veteran actor and president of AVOA declared the ban an enabling regulation that favours the local industry. Segun Arinze also referred to the ban as a new dawn for the Association of Voice-Over Artists and assured the public that the association is already at work on how to position its members to fill those gaps.