From Opening Speech at Cannes Lions Rewind 2011

As you would have already heard, this year, Cannes Lions once again broke its own records as the world’s greatest gathering for communication professionals, with increase in attendance, increase in entries and increase in learning and networking opportunities.

All of these may mean little to us, if as a nation we do not have a place in this success story. But we do. We may not have won a Lion or two. But we’re well on the way to doing so.

When a young creative mind is exposed to world-class ideas as are presented by Cannes, they become sufficiently radicalized and completely uncomfortable with the statuesque of mediocre work, with their hearts desperately burning for a change.

This is why we are strong believers in promoting the youth events. This year seven young Nigerians participated in Cannes, bringing the number of under 28’s that have been exposed to Cannes to a total of 22. Believe it not, the revolution has started. We have successfully planted world-class award winners in the system.

This night we’d like to recognize a few industry leaders who share our vision of making Nigeria the hub for world-class creativity. They are the ones that have made this possible through their support and endorsement.