Nigeria’s foremost advertising leader, Dr. Biodun Shobanjo, has been inducted into the Loeries Hall of Fame. Consequently, the Chairman of Troyka Holdings is now the first West African to receive the prestigious honour since the award’s inception in 2008.

The induction took place at the 47th annual Loeries Awards ceremony. Specifically, this event happened on Friday, 10th October 2025, in Cape Town, South Africa. The award, therefore, celebrates Dr. Shobanjo’s visionary leadership and trailblazing contributions. Moreover, it recognizes his role in building one of Africa’s most formidable creative and business institutions, the Troyka Group.

The Loeries Awards remain Africa and the Middle East’s most esteemed platform. It recognizes excellence, innovation, and creativity across the marketing communications landscape. In this context, the Loeries Hall of Fame is its highest individual accolade. The organization reserves this for exceptional leaders. These leaders have dedicated their careers to elevating creativity and professionalism in the industry across the region. As a result, Dr. Shobanjo becomes the 16th recipient of the award. He joins a distinguished circle of global industry figures.

Dr. Shobanjo has been a defining voice in the African marketing and communications industry for over four decades. Indeed, as the chairman of Troyka Holdings, he has led a transformative movement. Troyka is the parent company of agencies like Insight Communications, Leo Burnett, and Starcom Media Perspectives. This movement, therefore, redefined the standards of creativity, strategy, and professionalism in West Africa.

Under his leadership, the Troyka Group evolved from a wholly indigenous enterprise. Significantly, it became an internationally connected network. This occurred through its partnership with Publicis Groupe. Publicis Groupe is the world’s largest marketing communications conglomerate.

Furthermore, through his leadership, the Troyka Group has become a benchmark for integrated communications in Africa. For instance, its agencies have won multiple international awards. They have earned recognition for outstanding creativity and strategic excellence.

Beyond corporate success, industry widely regards Dr. Shobanjo as the “Father of Modern Advertising in Nigeria.” His visionary approach to talent development and mentorship has paved the way for generations of practitioners. He has also inspired entrepreneurs in the marketing communications ecosystem. Ultimately, his philosophy of discipline, excellence, and relentless innovation continues to shape the creative economy in West Africa.

He has also received national and international recognition for his contributions. In fact, in October 2022, Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari conferred on him the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) national honour.

 

About The Loeries

Founded in 1978, The Loeries is the oldest and most prestigious award organization in Africa and the Middle East. It dedicates itself to recognizing creative excellence in brand communication. Through its Hall of Fame, introduced in 2008, The Loeries honours individuals whose careers have made a lasting impact on the industry. This impact includes business achievements, mentorship, innovation, and leadership.

Past inductees include some of the most respected figures in the global advertising and communications industry. To illustrate, Dani Richa, Chairman & CEO, BBDO EMEA, and John Hunt, Worldwide Creative Director, TBWA/Worldwide. Consequently, Dr. Shobanjo’s recognition is a milestone for West Africa. It also serves as a testament to Nigeria’s growing influence in the global creative economy.

 

 

About Troyka Holdings

Troyka Holdings is West Africa’s leading marketing communications and business solutions group. It comprises specialized agencies that deliver integrated services. These services, for instance, span advertising, public relations, media planning, experiential marketing, digital strategy, and security management.

Its agencies include Insight Publicis, Leo Burnett, Starcom Media Perspective, All Seasons Zenith, Quadrant MSL, Digitas, Optimum Exposures, and Halogen Security. Troyka has managed some of the world’s biggest brands. It consistently continues to drive innovation that defines the future of African marketing.

Finally, the group is renowned for its creative excellence, strategic depth, and commitment to nurturing young African talent. This expertise makes it a trusted partner for global and regional clients. They seek authentic and effective brand engagement in Africa.