To celebrate World PR Day, the organisers have recognised veteran journalist and media entrepreneur John Ajayi as one of Nigeria’s most influential figures in public relations.

With a remarkable initiative, Ajayi, a notable Publisher, joined other distinguished leaders on the 2025 PR Power List.

GLG Communications curated the landmark initiative in partnership with The Guardian and Edelman Afrique.

Ajayi, the Founder and CEO of MARKETING EDGE Publications Ltd., was listed in the ICONS category.

In addition, the award honours individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the development and evolution of Nigeria’s public relations industry.

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Decades of Industry Excellence

With over 30 years of experience in journalism and media, industry leaders celebrate John Ajayi for his pioneering work in brand and marketing communications reporting.

A graduate of English from the University of Lagos, where he also earned a Master’s degree in Political Science, Ajayi began his career with The News Magazine.

He also worked with firms such as THISDAY Newspapers and The Comet, where he carved out a niche for himself in marketing and business before venturing into media entrepreneurship.

The Birth of MARKETING EDGE

In 2003, Ajayi took a bold step. He founded MARKETING EDGE, a trailblazing publication focused on the integrated marketing communications (IMC) sector.

Despite early challenges with funding and investor pullouts, the publication has grown into a multi-platform media powerhouse.

This is spanning print, digital, television, and out-of-home (OOH) advertising.

Its television arm, MARKETING EDGE ONTV, airs weekly on TVC News and WAP TV, bringing the latest in brand and advertising. The TV presence also brings PR developments to a broader audience.

Driving Industry Engagement

Ajayi is also the convener of the National Marketing Stakeholders Summit and the Brand & Advertising Excellence Awards.

Meanwhile, this is an events that bring together top voices in Nigeria’s communications industry to share insights and celebrate outstanding achievements.

Acknowledged by Peers and Institutions

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) inducted Ajayi in recognition of his contributions. At the same time, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN) also honoured him.

The NUJ named him a Media Icon in 2022, and industry stakeholders awarded him the Industry Torchbearer Award for his pioneering role in brand journalism.

Spotlight on Influencers in PR

The PR Power List aims to spotlight professionals shaping the future of public relations in Nigeria. A list which is divided into five categories.

These categories include: Icons, Changemakers, Community Impact Leaders, Rising Voices, and Media Icons.

Ajayi’s inclusion underscores his lifelong commitment to journalistic excellence, innovation, and the professionalisation of marketing communications in Nigeria.

A Voice for the Industry

Speaking on the recognition, John Ajayi remarked, “This honour is not just about me. It’s about the vision of giving a voice to the marketing and PR community and creating a platform that tells their stories with depth, truth, and impact.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

As the Nigerian media landscape continues to evolve, Ajayi remains a beacon of resilience and innovation.

No doubt that with this, he is inspiring a new generation of communications professionals and setting a standard for impactful journalism and industry leadership.

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