In a landslide victory reflecting strong industry confidence, Stephen Onaivi, the Managing Director of mediaReach OMD, has emerged as the new Vice President of the Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIPAN) during the association’s recently held Annual General Meeting in Ogere, Ogun State.

Onaivi outperformed three other candidates to secure the position by a considerable margin, underscoring strong member support for his leadership vision. The election also ushered in a broader executive transition, with former Vice President Brenda Nwagwu stepping into the role of MIPAN President.

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Reacting to his election win, Onaivi expressed gratitude to members of the association for their trust and backing.

“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who believed in me and supported my election as Vice President of MIPAN during the AGM,” Onaivi stated. “Your votes were not just a show of confidence; they were a reminder of the responsibility I now carry to serve, represent, and contribute meaningfully to our association.”

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He added that he does not take the opportunity for granted and pledged to collaborate closely with the newly elected President, Brenda Nwagwu, the executive committee, and the wider membership to advance MIPAN’s strategic objectives and elevate Nigeria’s broader media and marketing communications ecosystem.

Onaivi brings over 15 years of deep expertise in media planning, account management, and business management across West and Central Africa. Currently serving as the Managing Director of mediaReach OMD Nigeria, he previously served as the Managing Director of mediaReach OMD Ghana starting in 2018, where he oversaw strategic expansion and operations.

Over his career, Onaivi has spearheaded media strategy and investment management for a portfolio of global and regional brands, including Google, Airtel, Diageo, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Uber, Virgin Atlantic, Vodafone, Promasidor, and Olam.

A recognized industry figure, Onaivi served on the shortlisting jury for the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in 2023. He is a Fellow of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) and holds memberships with MIPAN and the Advertising Council of Ghana.

Onaivi holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy and a Master’s degree in Public and International Affairs from the University of Lagos. He is an alumnus of the Lagos Business School and has completed executive education programs at the London Business School.

Beyond corporate leadership, he is the founder of the “Play with Stephen Initiative,” an annual charity golf tournament dedicated to driving awareness and support for individuals living with autism across West Africa.