The President of the Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG), Andrew Ackah, has called on the government to prioritise the passage of the long-pending Advertising Bill.
Speaking on the Channel One Newsroom on Friday, February 13, he drew comparisons with neighbouring Nigeria, where an advertising law passed in 1988, according to him has helped maintain order and cleanliness, particularly in Lagos.
He stressed that proper regulation of the advertising sector is critical for public safety, city aesthetics, and orderly urban planning.
“The Advertising Association of Ghana since 2012 has been pushing for the Advertising Bill to be passed by Parliament. It has gone through cabinet twice, it has gone through the floor of Parliament once but as it is now we haven’t seen the light.
“It is quite disheartening that as the gateway of Africa, you leave the Airport, get to 37 and the Tetteh Quashie and you wonder if we are leaving in a city of a sort,” he said.
Meanwhile, AAG has expressed concern over the ongoing billboard demolition exercise in the Greater Accra Region, calling on President John Dramani Mahama and the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to intervene and restore order.
In a statement issued on Friday, February 13, the AAG affirmed its commitment to supporting efforts to sanitise the outdoor advertising space, enhance public safety, and improve the aesthetics of Ghana’s skylines. However, the association expressed serious concern over the way the demolition exercise is being carried out.
The statement pointed to a lack of direct engagement with industry stakeholders, particularly operators who are primary players in outdoor advertising, before the commencement of demolitions.
It also noted the absence of a clear and publicly communicated framework, including phased plans, timelines, compliance parameters, and enforcement standards.
Call Linda Ocloo to order over selective billboard demolitions – AAG to Mahama
