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By Brown Chimezie
For Merry Edebi, the Chief Executive Officer of Merriflux Limited, running a media and advertising outfit in Nigeria is grueling endeavour but quitting is not an option.
Her person for her field of practice propels her to succeed against all odds. She said media and advertising sub-sectors in Nigeria are still at the infant stages of development compared to developed markets. This, she says, presents challenges for businesses seeking adequate brand visibility and access to high-quality advertising and public relations services.
She assured that her firm is determined to close these gaps, potentially signifying a future of innovation in Nigerian media advertising.
She speaks more about her firm and passion to succeed.
Why I chose broadcasting?
As a child, my formative years were shaped by the captivating allure of radio broadcasts and television programs. The mesmerising cadence of the presenters and the knowledge that a multitude of people tuned in to listen and watch left an indelible impression on me. At the age of 8, I told my mother that my dream was to become a broadcaster in the future. During my university days, my passion for broadcasting found new inspiration through the captivating Oprah Winfrey Show. Her charismatic and impactful communication style fueled my fascination with the world of broadcasting, solidifying my resolve to pursue a career in this dynamic field.
The synergy between the spoken word and the receptive audience resonated with me, further igniting my desire to share stories, ideas, and experiences with a broader audience through the medium of broadcasting. After the completion of my academics, my journey into broadcasting began to unfold. I took my initial steps into the field through opportunities at Delta Rainbow Television and Melody FM in Warri, Delta State. These experiences not only marked the commencement of my professional foray into broadcasting but also provided me with valuable hands-on exposure to the intricacies of the industry.
Both media outfits became the canvases upon which I painted the early strikes of my broadcasting career. The vibrant atmosphere of live broadcasting, coupled with the challenges and rewards of engaging with diverse audiences, further fueled my passion for the career. From the control room to the on-air booth, each moment contributed to my growth as a broadcaster.
About Merriflux
It is a Nigerian based company that is dedicated to the business of media and publicity. We specialise in advertising, brand development, public relations, and media coverage. The company aims to provide comprehensive services in the field of media and strives to excel in promoting brands, managing public image, and delivering quality media solutions to clients, contributing to the dynamic landscape of media and publicity in Nigeria.
We entered the Nigerian market to address various challenges and provide solutions in the media and publicity sector. The company aims to tackle issues such as limited access to quality advertising and public relations services, and the need for comprehensive media coverage. By offering specialised expertise in advertising, brand development, and public relations, it seeks to enhance brand recognition, improve public image, and contribute to the overall growth of businesses operating in Nigeria.
The company’s presence aims to fill gaps in the market, providing tailored media solutions to meet the diverse needs of clients and foster success in the Nigerian business landscape. We are working with ActivatorHQ on a project called the 3X Start Up prize, which is a hunt for budding entrepreneurs. They bring their business ideas and a panel would sit and evaluate them and the best of them would be given seed money to go and put their ideas into practice, while we will be guiding and nurturing them. That is one of the ways we want to make Nigeria a producing country.
Challenges
Running a media and publicity business in Nigeria comes with various challenges. One significant hurdle is the intense competition within the industry. To surmount this, we intend to focus on innovation, ensuring a high standard of service delivery and establishing unique partnerships that differentiate us from our competitors. Another challenge is the infrastructure limitations prevalent in the country, including issues with power supply and Internet connectivity. We plan to invest in reliable backup systems and explore alternative solutions to ensure uninterrupted operations despite these infrastructure challenges. Economic volatility is also a concern, given the fluctuations in Nigeria’s economic landscape. To address this, we aim to implement flexible pricing models and provide cost-effective yet impactful solutions, making our services adaptable to varying client budgets during economic downturns. Navigating regulatory complexities is crucial for any business in Nigeria. We are committed to investing in legal expertise to ensure compliance with local laws and building strong relationships with relevant authorities to operate seamlessly within the regulatory framework. Talent acquisition poses another challenge, particularly in the scarcity of skilled professionals in the media and publicity industry.
We aspire to be a prominent force in the Nigerian media industry, recognised for its innovation, comprehensive services and client-centric approach. The company aims to expand its reach through strategic partnerships, establishing itself as a go-to choice for creative and impactful media solutions. Merriflux envisions solidifying its position as a leader, contributing significantly to the growth and success of businesses in Nigeria, while maintaining a commitment to adaptability, local relevance, and proactive regulatory compliance.
Handling competition
Competition is akin to a rhythmic drumbeat fueling the passion for dancing. Engaging in competition serves as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, propelling individuals to evolve rapidly. The presence of competitors not only signifies the significance of one’s endeavors but also validates their value in a broader context. Embracing competitions becomes a driving force, instilling a relentless work ethic to continually strive for excellence and emerge as the best in the field. The dynamic nature of competitions fosters an environment where continuous improvement is not only encouraged but becomes imperative, shaping individuals into resilient and accomplishing goals.
