Advertising Association of Ghana Urges John Dramani Mahama to Address Selective Billboard Demolitions

The Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG) has appealed to John Dramani Mahama and the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to step in and restore order to the ongoing billboard demolition exercise in the Greater Accra Region.

In a statement issued on Friday, February 13, the association reaffirmed its support for initiatives aimed at sanitising the outdoor advertising space, improving public safety, and enhancing the visual appeal of Ghana’s urban skylines. However, it raised serious concerns about how the demolition exercise is being implemented.

The AAG criticised the absence of direct engagement with key industry stakeholders — particularly outdoor advertising operators — prior to the start of the demolitions. It also pointed to the lack of a clearly communicated operational framework outlining phased implementation plans, timelines, compliance requirements, and enforcement standards.

Additionally, the association highlighted what it described as irregularities and selective enforcement, suggesting that certain actions may be influenced by political interests or individuals with vested stakes in parts of the advertising industry.

According to the AAG, such practices risk undermining industry stability, weakening investor confidence, and threatening the livelihoods of thousands of workers within the sector.

Calling for an urgent institutional reset, the association urged the President and the sector minister to ensure transparent engagement with stakeholders, clarify the mandate of the committee overseeing the exercise, and implement a structured, fair, and phased demolition plan that respects due process and regulatory integrity.

The AAG emphasised that effective governance and coordinated execution are essential to achieving public safety and improved urban aesthetics without disrupting economic activity or damaging investor trust in the outdoor advertising industry.

The statement further appealed for authorities to call the committee and the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, to order to ensure fairness and accountability in the process.