The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has launched a formal investigation into an outstanding ₦1 billion debt linked to mobile advertising operations in the country. The regulatory body says it is determined to hold defaulters accountable while ensuring full enforcement of Nigeria’s advertising laws and ethical standards.
In a statement issued by its Director-General, Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, ARCON disclosed that the debt reportedly stems from non-payment by several agencies and advertisers for mobile digital advertising services rendered across platforms in recent years.
The Council expressed deep concern over the mounting debt profile within the advertising ecosystem, describing the development as a threat to the growth and sustainability of the sector. Dr. Fadolapo said ARCON is poised to investigate the matter thoroughly, and where necessary, apply legal and regulatory sanctions.
“We cannot continue to allow advertisers and media buyers to default on payments to service providers while benefiting from the value chain. This disrupts the economic balance of the industry and violates the Nigerian Advertising Industry Reform laws,” he stated.
He further noted that ARCON will work closely with all stakeholders, including telecom service providers, mobile media owners, and advertising agencies, to trace the debt trail and determine responsible parties. The Council has invited affected parties to submit relevant documents and transaction records for review.
As part of the enforcement drive, ARCON reminded industry players that the Advertising Industry Standard of Practice (AISOP) mandates prompt payment for advertising services and holds all parties accountable to contractual obligations. The Council emphasized that it will not hesitate to blacklist any individual or corporate entity found culpable.
This move comes amid ongoing efforts by ARCON to sanitize the advertising landscape, curb unprofessional practices, and protect the interests of content creators, media owners, and service providers. The Council has recently taken a more assertive stance, including its legal actions against non-compliant influencers, digital advertisers, and foreign platforms operating without proper licensing.
Dr. Fadolapo reiterated ARCON’s commitment to promoting transparency, fairness, and financial responsibility in the advertising industry, adding that the Council’s goal is to foster a healthier business environment that benefits both local and international players within Nigeria’s creative economy.
