The Resurgence of NIMRA: A Catalyst for Nigeria’s Economic Development through Data and Insights
The Nigerian Marketing Research Association (NIMRA) has embarked on a significant journey of revitalization, aiming to solidify its role as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic progress. Recognizing the power of reliable data and market insights in driving informed decision-making, NIMRA has reaffirmed its commitment to championing these crucial elements for the benefit of the nation. At the heart of this resurgence is the association’s aspiration to become the custodian of data, insight, and analytics, providing a robust foundation for evidence-based policy formulation and business strategies. This renewed focus signifies a crucial step towards harnessing the potential of market research in shaping a more prosperous future for Nigeria.
The theme of NIMRA’s recent annual general meeting, "Rebuilding Better, Rebuilding Together," encapsulates the association’s commitment to collaborative growth and revitalization. After a period of relative inactivity, NIMRA recognizes the importance of a unified effort to rebuild its strength and influence. President Seyi Adeoye emphasized the significance of this gathering as the first formal meeting in years, underscoring the need for collective action to propel the association forward. Acknowledging past challenges related to cohesion and trust among members, Adeoye stressed the critical value of collaboration in achieving NIMRA’s objectives. He highlighted the principle that collective growth translates to increased relevance and economic opportunities for all stakeholders. This renewed emphasis on collaboration marks a crucial turning point in NIMRA’s trajectory, setting the stage for a more impactful and influential future.
NIMRA’s potential impact on the Nigerian economy is substantial, given its extensive membership base comprising over 10,000 professionals and hundreds of thousands of field operatives. The association envisions a future where market researchers play an indispensable role in national economic councils, contributing their expertise to data analysis, insightful interpretation, and sustainable planning. NIMRA seeks to complement the efforts of existing agencies like the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics, providing valuable market insights that enrich the national data landscape. This collaborative approach recognizes the synergistic potential of various data sources in providing a comprehensive understanding of the Nigerian economy, enabling more effective policy formulation and implementation.
The recent annual general meeting serves as a vital step towards ensuring NIMRA’s continuity and progress. Recognizing past achievements while acknowledging gaps in leadership that hindered growth, the association is committed to rebuilding trust and driving its agenda forward with renewed vigor. Yemisi Makinde, Chairman of the Events and Publicity Committee, highlighted the AGM’s significance in facilitating this forward momentum. The current executive team is dedicated to restoring NIMRA’s prominence and ensuring its continued role as a hub for nurturing talent and fostering professional interaction within the market research community.
NIMRA’s commitment to standardizing market research practices in Nigeria is a crucial step towards ensuring the reliability and integrity of market insights. By eliminating shady dealings and promoting accountability, NIMRA aims to create a more transparent and ethical environment for market research, benefiting businesses with access to credible data for informed decision-making. Godson Bekeh, a chartered accountant and NIMRA member, emphasized the advantages of a well-organized association in promoting business growth. Reliable market insights are essential for businesses to achieve their long-term goals, and NIMRA’s efforts to standardize practices contribute significantly to this objective.
The revitalization of NIMRA is met with optimism from industry professionals who recognize the association’s potential to elevate the role of market research in Nigeria’s economic discourse. Chinyere Ugwulali, a Consumer Planning and Insights Manager at NigerBev Ltd, expressed confidence in NIMRA’s future, recalling its past prominence as a go-to platform for market researchers. The AGM represents a pivotal moment in restoring NIMRA’s leading position and ensuring its continued contribution to talent development and professional networking. The association’s plans to hold training sessions, masterclasses, and public-private partnerships further solidify its commitment to advancing the field of market research in Nigeria. Through these initiatives, NIMRA aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of market research professionals, fostering a more robust and impactful industry that contributes significantly to national economic development.
