Yemi Adeyemi Appointed First Nigerian Chair of IABC Africa Board

In a historic first, Yemi Adeyemi appointed Chair of IABC Africa, marking a milestone for Nigeria’s communications sector and continental leadership

Yemi Adeyemi appointed as Chair of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Africa Region marks a historic step for both Nigeria and the continent’s communications sector.

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Elected at the IABC Africa Region’s Annual General Meeting held virtually on June 25, Adeyemi becomes the first Nigerian to hold the prestigious continental position.

His appointment to lead the newly reconstituted Regional Executive Board for the 2025–2026 term is being hailed as a defining moment for African communicators and a major boost to Nigeria’s professional reputation in global strategic communications.

In his acceptance address, Adeyemi expressed gratitude and set a clear direction for his tenure.

“We will focus on deepening member engagement, enhancing professional development, and creating opportunities for African communicators to lead and shine globally,” he said.

Dr Adeyemi brings over two decades of experience in corporate communications, public relations strategy, stakeholder engagement, and academic research.

A respected scholar and practitioner, he holds a PhD in Communication Studies from the University of Port Harcourt, alongside degrees from Ahmadu Bello University and the University of Ibadan.

He has previously served as IABC Africa Vice Chair and Director for West Africa, helping to drive regional growth, increase professional development opportunities, and boost engagement.

His leadership in the IABC “Stronger Together Task Team 2.0” earned him the Chairperson Award in 2024 for outstanding contributions to global membership value.

Dr Adeyemi is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, the Institute of Change Management, and the Institute of Management Consultants Nigeria.

Joining him on the new Executive Board are leading professionals from across the continent, including Christine Breet as Vice Chair and Camilla Osborne, the outgoing Chair, who now serves as Director of Governance.

The Board also features regional representatives and directors focused on events, development, and awards.

In addition, several senior coordinators have been appointed to ensure effective programme delivery and support a sustainable leadership pipeline.

Long-serving IABC member Dr Amanda Hamilton-Atwell will act in an advisory role.

Outgoing Chair Camilla Osborne, reflecting on the past term, said, “I am proud to hand over strong foundations to a dynamic team that is passionate about uniting African communicators and elevating the narrative of African excellence.”

She noted achievements such as the certification of more African communication professionals, increased visibility in global governance, and stronger engagement through regional interest groups.

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As Yemi Adeyemi assumes leadership of the IABC Africa Region, stakeholders across the industry are optimistic that his tenure will advance ethical, strategic, and globally relevant communications practices across the continent.