Dr. Abisoye Fagade, a distinguished Nigerian marketing communication expert, was recently appointed as the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR). As the founder and Managing Director of Sodium Brand Solutions, he has positioned the agency as a major player in Nigeria’s marketing industry.
Early Life and Education
Born in Ibadan, Nigeria, on March 10, 1974, Fagade attended Queen of Apostle Primary School in Oluyoro, Ibadan, and Lagelu Grammar School in Agugu, Ibadan. He later pursued studies at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile Ife.
Career Beginnings
Fagade launched his marketing career in 1999 with De-United Foods, the producer of Indomie noodles, after completing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program. He later worked with IMS Group’s Tequila Event as a Client Service Manager and joined SO&U Saatchi and Saatchi Group in 2006 as Assistant Director, focusing on experiential marketing.
Founding Sodium Brand Solutions
In 2009, Fagade established Sodium Brand Solutions, which has managed marketing communication campaigns for major multinationals like Coca-Cola and MTN.
Entrepreneurial and Community Initiatives
In 2019, Fagade launched the Abisoye Fagade Foundation, which aims to tackle youth unemployment in Nigeria by providing skills training. He also created the “Oyo Si Ma Dun” Network (OSMD), a platform supporting youth empowerment, particularly in Oyo State.
Cultural Recognition
In 2023, he was honored as the Aare Asoju Oba of Ara Kingdom by the Alara of Ara Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Olubayo Adesola Windapo, in Osun State.
Expanding Business Interests
A widely traveled marketing consultant, Fagade has extended his business ventures into the hospitality sector.
Political Ambitions
Fagade aimed to run for the office of Oyo State Governor in 2023 under the All Progressives Congress (APC) but lost in the primary election.
Through his contributions to marketing, youth empowerment, and now his leadership role at NIHOTOUR, Dr. Fagade is set to drive significant growth and development in Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
