54 Brands Bag CVAs As Lagos Govt., NCC, NCAA Laud Brand Exchange On Initiative

The Lagos state government, Nigeria Telecommunications Commission, and Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority have lauded Brand Exchange, the organizer of Consumers Value Awards on the second edition of the initiative.

The commendation is coming on the heels of recognitions of 54 brands who have distinguished themselves in delivering excellent products and services worthy of consumers money.

The award-winning brands which had earlier been nominated and voted by consumers, were honoured and recognized at the second edition of the annual event with the theme: “Consumer Satisfaction Index”, held Thursday at Raddison Blue, GRA Ikeja Lagos.

While giving an insight into the rationale behind the initiative, the Lead Strategist, Absolute PR, Akonte Ekine who is also the CEO of Brand Exchange revealed that this year award has been nothing short of extraordinary, noting that there is an overwhelming response from consumers across the country who took their time to nominate and vote for their favorite brands. For Ekine, it is a testament to the active and discerning nature of consumers as over three hundred brands were nominated for consideration.

“For about three months, we consumers across the country cast our votes carefully considering which brands provided the best value for our hard earned money and I’m sure we are still looking at that. Today, we probably announced that over fifty brands have emerged victorious as the best value for money brand for the second time and we are very grateful to have shared this experience of validating brand efficacy through your votes.

“This brands have not only met but exceeded the expectations of discerning consumers, consistently delivering of products, services that resonate with the very heart of what the consumer satisfaction index stands for, which is unwavering dedication to consumers’ happiness and contentment.

“The badge of honour that this brands will receive today is not just a symbol, it’s a reflection of their relentless commitment to consumers-centricity. It’s a salute to the tireless efforts they have put into the understanding and fulfilling the needs of the modern Nigerian consumers. In a world where the power of choice has never been greater, it’s exciting to see brands rise to the occasion and truly make a difference in the lives of the people they serve.

“The consumer satisfactory index is a mirror reflecting the synergy between the demands of consumers and the passion of brands to meet those demands. As we gathered to applaud these exceptional brands, let us also celebrate the spirit of informed consumerism that drives us all towards a brighter and more fulfilling future.

Receiving an Award of Consumers’ Right Advocacy Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Mrs Ososanya Adetutu commended Brand Exchange and revealed that the scheme has enabled the interest of consumers to be protected through advocacy and raising awareness on consumers’ right.

“I will like to congratulate the management of Brand Exchange on the successful hosting of the second edition of this award. I commend you for the hardwork that has gone into putting together an event of this significance, an initiative geared towards protecting the interest of consumers through advocacy and raising awareness on consumers right.

“As we all know, the overriding responsibility of government as enshrined in the constitution is to ensure the welfare and security of the citizens. Promoting citizens welfare connotes among other things protecting them agaisnt exploitation and ensuring they receive values for money spent to procure goods and services.

“Being the commercial and industrial nerve center of the nation, the Lagos state govt. recognizes the need to put in place an agency that will be charged with the responsibilities of ensuring that people will not be shortchanged or exploited and received the satisfaction expected from the goods and services purchased.” The Governor said

Similarly speaking at the occasion, the Director General of the Nigeria Communication Commission represented by the Director, Consumer Affairs Bereau, Mallam Alkasim Umar congratulated the nominees and winners of the awards for their outstanding achievements in meeting and exceeding consumers expectations.

“I would like to congratulate all the nominees and winners who have been recognized for their outstanding achievements in meeting and exceeding consumes expectations. Your tireless efforts, unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence deserve utmost admiration and applause. In today’s economic and ever-ebolving market place, consumers are the paymasters of any business. It is your feedback that guides companies throughout innovation, quality and consumers-centricity.

“Consumers Value Awards appraise the power of consumers influence and the significant role consumers play in shaping the business landscape. Consumers continuous support and trust of brands have not gone unnoticed. And as such, this event is an opportunity to celebrate consumers, consumers descerning choices and the businesses that have consistently strived to earn their loyalty.”

Continuing, the DG noted that the theme of this year’s consumers value award: Consumers satisfaction index speaks volume in today’s ecosystem.

“Satisfying customers and needs is a top priority for any business because satisfied customers are more profitable and loyal as they are more likely to spread positive feedbacks by word of mouth. Today, we have gathered to acknowledge and appreciate the remarkable achievement of organization that have made consumer satisfaction a top priority. This company has not only understood the importance of delivering exceptional value but have consistently gone above and beyond to exceed consumers expectations.” He concluded.

On his part, the Director General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Musa Shaibu Nuhu hinted that Consumers satisfaction is the backbone of any business because it ensures not only business success but also sustainability.

The DG who spoke through the Director, Human Resources and Admin, Wakil Adami emphasized that as the regulator of Aviation industry, the agency places so much values on customers satisfaction, protection and the right to enable consumers have full value.

He further disclosed that NCAA is simply concerned on compensation for delay, damages, loss of baggages and this is going to be pursued to the letter to ensure the rights of consumers are protected.

Corroborating the position of Governor Sanwo-Olu on Consumers’ Right in Lagos, the General Manager, Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, Afolabi Solebo stated that the Agency is synergizing with Federal Competition and Consumer Agency, Standard Organization of Nigeria, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Justice and the Police Force.

“I’m saying this because Consumer Right is very wide. With experience in Lagos, I can tell you without mincing words that consumers are kings. But what is happening is that most consumers don’t even know their rights and that is why the Lagos state Consumer Protection Agency is making good use of consumers education department by going round most part of Lagos state to ensure that consumers are educated. It’s only when you are educated that is when you know your right.” Solebo stated.

Consumers Value Awards is an initiative to promote and recognize outstanding contribution of Nigerian entrepreneurs to the development of a sustainable economy and to encourage local practitioners to develop innovative and creative ideas that will enhance economic growth locally and internationally.

The move is also aimed at acknowledging innovators, academics and policy makers.

Some of the brands that won their categories include Glo which was voted as best value for money Telecommunications service brand 2023, Dangote Sugar won Sugar brand 2023 while Fearless emerged Energy Drink Brand 2023.

Others that won in their categories are Mamador, voted for best value for money brand 2023, Lafarge Cement as Cement Brand 2023 and Hypo as Toilet Cleaner brand 2023.

In all, 54 brands from different categories were voted as best brands that offered value for money for the year in view.