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Communication Without Communicating: How Coca-Cola Bangladesh Added Fuel Its Fire

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  By         Ishola Ayodele Introduction Coca-Cola, established in 1886, is one of the most recognizable brands in the world, symbolizing refreshment and global connectivity. Known for its iconic red-and-white logo and signature beverage, the company has built a vast and diverse consumer base across numerous regions. With operations spanning over 200 countries, Coca-Cola has established itself as a key player in the global market, consistently striving to resonate with local cultures while maintaining its international appeal.   However, in the summer of 2024, Coca-Cola's global standing faced a significant challenge. The company encountered intense backlash in the Middle East and Asia, fueled by its perceived association with Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The brand’s efforts to address these tensions through a high-profile advertising campaign in Bangladesh inadvertently exacerbated the situation, highlighting the complexities of navigatin...

Cultural Complicity: How PR Can Dismantle Nigeria’s Norms of Corruption

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By Ishola Ayodele “A child is neither born a saint nor a criminal, he is born into what society makes him to be” Ishola Ayodele Recently the media has been abuzz with the news that the National Hajj Commission (NAHCO), responsible for overseeing and organizing the pilgrimage for Nigerian Muslims, faced scrutiny over the management of a substantial N90 billion subsidy meant for the Hajj. The scandal emerged when concerns were raised about the allocation and utilization of these funds. The accusations included mismanagement, favouritism, and a lack of transparency in how the money was distributed and utilized. This case highlighted systemic issues within NAHCO, where personal gain and financial incentives appeared to overshadow ethical considerations and institutional integrity.   The NAHCO corruption crisis exemplifies how deeply entrenched corruption can be with cultural norms and social practices playing a significant role in its perpetuation. This issue transcends mere governance...

3-Year-Old Lethukhanya Mjaja, Albany Bread, and the Power of Social Media: Lessons for PR Professionals

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  By Ishola Ayodele                       A three-year-old girl from South Africa named Lethukhanya Mjaja was sent to buy a loaf of bread. She became fascinated with muddy water and started playing in it while still holding the loaf of bread. Completely lost in her imaginative world, she was unaware of her uncle, a commercial photographer, observing her. Unlike most, her talented uncle saw something unique in that moment. Instead of scolding her, he took photos, did a mock-up for billboard and delivery truck and posted everything online. The pictures went viral, becoming a sensation on South Africa's social media as the  hashtag #AlbanyBreadGirl is trending with Twitter . This caught the attention of Albany Bread, the bread company. The marketing team visited  Lethukhanya and give her some gift items and cash. This gesture also earned Albany bread some goodwill especially among netizens.  Outcomes ...

The SAMOA Agreement Controversy: Perspectives, Concerns, and Clarity

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 By Ishola Ayodele The SAMOA Agreement, recently signed by Nigeria, has sparked intense debate in the public sphere. Named after Samoa, where it was signed, this agreement establishes a comprehensive legal framework between the European Union (EU) and more than half of the 79 members of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS). It covers six main areas: democracy and human rights, sustainable economic growth, climate change, human and social development, peace and security, and migration and mobility. While designed to foster cooperation and development among its signatories, recent controversies have clouded its true intent, particularly in Nigeria.   After extensive review of media reports, expert analyses, and discussions, I present the arguments of both proponents and critics of the SAMOA Agreement, along with the major concerns fueling the controversies:   ARGUMENTS FOR THE SAMOA AGREEMENT *Economic and Developmental Benefits* ...

“Meeting Your Audience Where They Are: Lessons from Providus Bank’s Intervention in the Dosunmu Market Fire Incident”

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  By Ishola Ayodele                                                                                                                    In the dynamic world of business, effective communication is not merely about broadcasting messages; it's about connecting with your audience on a personal level. The recent intervention by Providus Bank in the aftermath of the Dosunmu Market fire incident exemplifies the power of meeting your audience where they are—a crucial strategy for attracting new customers and retaining existing ones.                             ...