President Bola Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to Dr. Biodun Shobanjo, a trailblazer in Nigeria’s advertising industry, on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, and sent to PUNCH Online on Tuesday, Tinubu described Shobanjo as a highly esteemed marketing communications expert and an advertising guru whose work has left an indelible mark on the industry.
“Dr. Biodun Shobanjo is not only a titan of the advertising world but also a beacon of excellence and innovation in Nigeria’s marketing communications sector. His dedication to his craft and his pioneering spirit have elevated the industry to new heights,” the President said.
Shobanjo’s illustrious career began at the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation before he joined Grant Advertising in 1971. Rising swiftly through the ranks, he became Deputy Managing Director in 1976. Four years later, he founded Insight Communications, which would go on to revolutionise Nigeria’s advertising landscape.
Under Shobanjo’s leadership, Insight Communications expanded into a marketing powerhouse, launching initiatives such as Quadrant, Nigeria’s first public relations consultancy, and All Seasons Mediacom, the country’s first media independent agency. Over time, these enterprises were consolidated under the Troyka Organisation, which also includes Halogen Security, founded by Shobanjo in 1992.
Tinubu highlighted Shobanjo’s contributions to the nation’s development, particularly through the advancement of marketing communications, a sector crucial to economic growth, social progress, and infrastructural development.
“Dr. Shobanjo’s accomplishments as a broadcaster, entrepreneur, and advertising professional exemplify discipline, integrity, and dedication. These virtues not only define his career but also inspire countless young professionals in the field,” Tinubu noted.
Reflecting on Shobanjo’s impact, Tinubu expressed confidence in his continued influence on the industry.
“I am certain that Dr. Shobanjo will remain a guiding light, sharing his vast knowledge and insights with practitioners striving to uphold best practices rooted in truth, local content promotion, and transparency—values that align with Nigeria’s development goals,” Tinubu added.
Concluding his message, Tinubu wished Shobanjo “many more years of good health, happiness, and continued success” while celebrating his extraordinary legacy.
Shobanjo’s contributions remain a testament to the transformative power of innovation and leadership in shaping industries and uplifting nations.
