Marketing and branding in West Africa are evolving rapidly, with creative agencies, digital innovators, and strategic brand managers transforming how businesses communicate and connect with their audiences. At the forefront of this evolution are executives whose vision, leadership, and regional impact set new standards for marketing excellence across the continent.
1. Steve Babaeko — CEO / Chief Creative Officer, X3M Ideas (Nigeria)
Steve Babaeko is the founder and CEO of X3M Ideas, one of Nigeria’s leading creative and brand strategy agencies. Renowned for his global creative leadership, Babaeko has redefined advertising standards in Nigeria, leading campaigns for multinational brands while nurturing a new generation of creative talent.
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2. Andrew Ackah — CEO, Dentsu Ghana
Andrew Ackah leads Dentsu Ghana, overseeing marketing, media, and brand strategy operations. With over two decades of experience, he has positioned Dentsu Ghana as a key player in West Africa’s marketing ecosystem, delivering impactful campaigns and strategic brand solutions.
3. Sahifoulaye Koné — General Manager, Canal+ Advertising Côte d’Ivoire
Sahifoulaye Koné runs Canal+ Advertising in Côte d’Ivoire, one of West Africa’s leading media advertising platforms. He is recognized for driving digital campaigns and brand strategies that strengthen regional and multinational businesses’ market presence.
4. Eloïne Barry — Founder & CEO, African Media Agency (Pan‑West Africa)
Eloïne Barry heads African Media Agency, a PR and communications firm with influence across West Africa. Barry is known for innovative media campaigns, strategic brand management, and her work with regional and multinational clients.
5. Olayemi Olamiju — Founder & CEO, 5th Element Creative Media Group (Nigeria)
Olayemi Olamiju leads 5th Element Creative Media Group, a full-service agency specializing in integrated marketing, digital campaigns, and brand storytelling. Under his leadership, the agency has delivered transformative marketing solutions for major Nigerian brands.
Methodology
The selection highlights West Africa’s most influential marketing and branding leaders as of 2025. Criteria included active leadership in top-tier marketing agencies or brand-focused companies, measurable regional impact, and documented campaigns or projects that shaped brand visibility across West Africa. Information was sourced from official agency profiles, media coverage, and credible publications. Emphasis was placed on current influence, industry leadership, and cross-border impact rather than past achievements alone.
