The Nation Newspaper

Tag: NIPR

  • NIPR urges Aiyedatiwa to back infrastructure upgrade with massive public sensitisation

    NIPR urges Aiyedatiwa to back infrastructure upgrade with massive public sensitisation

    The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Ondo State Chapter, has called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to complement the ongoing infrastructural upgrade in the state with an aggressive public education and sensitisation campaign.

    The call was contained in a statement issued on Friday after the institute’s monthly meeting in Akure.

    The statement was jointly signed by the state chairman, Funmilayo Ikueduranni, and secretary, Sunday Omosule, and released to journalists in Akure, the state capital.

    The NIPR commended the governor for the rejuvenation of road signs and installation of new traffic lights across Akure, describing the developments as reflective of global standards for modern and well-planned cities.

    According to the institute, the deployment of functional traffic control systems is a hallmark of urban development, orderliness, and effective road management.

    “However, the chapter strongly advises the state government to complement this notable infrastructural upgrade with aggressive educational and sensitisation campaigns,” the statement said.

    It recommended that the campaigns should be coordinated through relevant government agencies, including the Ministries of Transportation, Information, and Works, as well as the Ondo State Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), to enlighten residents on the proper use of traffic lights and road regulations.

    The body also warned that without adequate sensitisation, the initiative could become counterproductive due to ignorance, misuse, or disregard for traffic rules.

    The institute further reaffirmed its readiness to partner with the Aiyedatiwa administration to drive awareness programmes that will improve public compliance and ensure the sustainability of the road management projects.

    On the social importance of the upgrade, the NIPR noted that functional traffic systems enhance the safety of motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and other road users, while reducing accidents and promoting a disciplined driving culture.

    The group said economically, the traffic projects represent a strategic investment in improved mobility and productivity, with benefits including reduced travel time, enhanced commercial activities, lower fuel consumption, and a more conducive environment for business and security operations.

    “By easing movement within the metropolis, this notable initiative of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa perfectly aligns with the broader global agenda of infrastructural development and economic sustainability as enshrined in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 9,” it added.

  • NIPR praises female students for winning young communicator awards

    NIPR praises female students for winning young communicator awards

    The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has applauded female students from Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano, and Nile University, Abuja, for winning the prestigious 2024/2025 Young Communicator Awards.

    The honours were conferred under the National Spokespersons Awards of the IMPR at the sidelines of the 2025 Campus Journalism Awards (CJA) at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

    During the presentation, Mrs. Maryam Sanusi, NIPR Membership Committee Chairman, described the recipients as “shining stars” whose achievements reflect young women’s rising influence in the communication profession and urged them to remain courageous in their pursuit of excellence.

    Encouraging the awardees to view the recognition as motivation to achieve greater feats, Sanusi, the institute’s first female chairperson in FCT, said, “Believe in yourself. As ladies, what men can do, you can do even better because you are human beings with great potential.”

    Sanusi commended the organisers for creating credible pathways that inspire emerging communication professionals and urged tertiary institutions to encourage their Mass Communication students to register as NIPR students and graduate members to attain associate membership.

    She further invited universities and communication students to participate in the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) to be held in Abuja. During the ceremony, documentaries screened highlighted the remarkable work undertaken by the winners. 

    Fatima Garba Bako from MAAUN produced an investigation on Dansarai Primary School in Gezawa, Kano—a dilapidated facility used as a nighttime hideout by criminal gangs—prompting Kano State Government’s intervention. Her portfolio covers women’s rights, climate change, and food security.

    The students from Nile University developed a strategic advocacy for the Arewa Economic Forum (AEF) on the proposed Bureau de Change (BDC) recapitalisation policy by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), which raised BDC capital requirements from ₦35 million to ₦2 billion.

    Their research revealed that the plan was unrealistic for many operators—particularly in northern Nigeria—and risked pushing some into illegal financial activities. The students’ campaign generated extensive media coverage, contributing to a months-long delay in the policy’s implementation.

    The Young Communicator Awards celebrate exceptional contributions in public relations, journalism, and advocacy. The initiative is driven by PRNigeria’s Spokesperson’s Digest, under the Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), which runs the annual Young Communication Fellowship and the National Spokespersons Awards.

    The Campus Journalism Awards (CJA) is Nigeria’s leading platform honouring excellence in student journalism. Since its establishment in 2018, the CJA has evolved into a national movement, attracting over 2,500 entries from more than 100 tertiary institutions.

  • NIPR, BPP collaborate to strengthen government communication

    NIPR, BPP collaborate to strengthen government communication

    In a significant step towards promoting excellence in public relations especially in government communication projects, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), entered into a partnership with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) towards ensuring that only certified professionals handle government Public Relations and other communication-related contracts.

    In a statement on Thursday, Professor Emmanuel Dandaura, Vice President of NIPR, said: “The activities of uncertified practitioners pose a serious threat to the integrity of government communication and the national economy.”

    Dandaura reminded the BPP that under the NIPR Act, it is a criminal offence for any individual or organisation without NIPR certification to bid for or execute public relations contracts in Nigeria and urged the Bureau to insist on certification as a mandatory requirement in all PR and communication-related procurements.

    “This partnership emphasises the importance of engaging certified practitioners who possess the necessary skills and expertise to deliver high-quality communication services.

    Read Also: NIPR, Nasarawa sign MoU to set up PR varsity

    “Organisations are encouraged to verify the credentials of PR practitioners and insist on NIPR certification as a mandatory requirement for all communication-related projects. This approach will not only enhance the quality of communication but also promote good governance and accountability,” he said.

    The BPP’s Director General, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to professionalism in procurement, stating that “procurement is not merely transactional; it’s a tool for good governance. And under my leadership, we are committed to professionalism and results-driven partnerships like this,” Adedokun said.

    Both institutions pledged that clear guidelines will be issued to implement this new requirement so that by engaging certified professionals, organizations can ensure that their communication strategies are effective, efficient, and aligned with best practices. 

  • NIPR, IMPR announce 5th national spokesperson awards nominations

    NIPR, IMPR announce 5th national spokesperson awards nominations

    The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in partnership with Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR) – publishers of PRNigeria and Spokespersons Digest, has officially opened nominations for the National Spokespersons Awards (NSA) 2025.

    The NIPR has reconstituted the Planning Committee and the Adjudication Committee for the NSA’s 5th edition, which recognizes exceptional spokespersons that have demonstrated excellence, transparency, and impactful communication in their respective fields.

    NIPR Vice President, Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura announced the appointment of former NIPR Lagos Chairman, Olusegun McMedal, as Planning Committee Chairman, Comptroller Joseph Attah (Rtd) as Vice Chairman, and Stanley Ogadigo as Secretary. Members are Mohammed Dahiru Lawal, Saad Shuaib, and Ikalone Udo.

    The Adjudication Committee will be led by Dr. Shuaibu Husseini, Executive Director/CEO of the National Film and Video Censors Board, with Prof. Anthony Igyuve as Vice Chairman and Abdulrahman Abdulraheem as Secretary. Members include Prof. Saudat Abdulbaqi, Hajia Lami Tumaka, Kabir Abdulsalam, and Ishola Ayodele.

    Read Also: Tinubu to Nigerians: I understand your challenges, reforms crucial

    The NSA 2025 will feature 22 categories, honoring individuals and teams that have played pivotal roles in shaping narratives, managing reputations, and fostering public trust.

    “This year’s edition promises to be the most competitive yet, as we seek to honor the finest communicators who have shaped public perception and trust through strategic communication,” said McMedal.

    McMedal urged public relations practitioners and communication enthusiasts to submit nominations in categories, including Outstanding Spokesperson of the Year, Outstanding Government Spokesperson (Federal and State levels), and Outstanding Corporate Spokesperson.

    Sector-specific excellence awards will also be presented in fields such as Security, Banking, Insurance, Health, Education, Digital Economy, Marine & Blue Economy, Power, Oil and Gas, and Hospitality.

    Other categories include Distinguished Crisis Management Spokespersons (Public and Private Sectors), Most Influential Corporate Voice, Best Corporate Share of Voice (Social Media), Best Corporate Spokesperson Team, and Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Public and Private Sectors).

    The nominations opened on February 24, 2025, and will close on March 24, 2025. Interested individuals and organizations can submit their nominations via the official NSAwards website or the NIPR website.

  • NIPR inducts Olanrewaju as member

    NIPR inducts Olanrewaju as member

    The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has inducted renowned journalist and public relations strategist, Ola Olanrewaju as member.

    The induction ceremony at National Press Centre, Radio House, Abuja, celebrated accomplishments and commitment of public relations professionals across Nigeria.

    The induction event featured new members, including Information Officers of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, alongside direct inductees.

    Olanrewaju was inducted as a full member of the Institute of Personality Development and Customer Relationship Management (IPD-CRM) few weeks ago. 

    Read Also: NIPR named finalist for Global Alliance World PR & Communication Award

    His NIPR induction, earning him the post-nominal title “anipr,” adds another significant milestone to his achievements.

    Olanrewaju expressed gratitude for the honour and pledged to uphold the institute’s high standards, saying the induction represents call to greater responsibility in advancing strategic communication and stakeholder engagement in Nigeria.

    Highlight of the event was the Induction Orientation Lecture presented by Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon, Secretary of the Training and Capacity Building Committee whose lecture underscored the critical role of ethical communication in shaping Nigeria’s public relations landscape.

    Chief Uzoma Onyegbadue, fnipr, Registrar of NIPR, administered the induction oath, emphasizing the institute’s core values and the responsibilities of its members. 

    President and Chairman of NIPR Governing Council, Dr. Ike Neliaku formally inducted the new members, reaffirming the institute’s commitment to professionalism and capacity building.

  • FG, NIPR, others advocate investment in leadership education to revive economy

    FG, NIPR, others advocate investment in leadership education to revive economy

    The Federal Government, through Dapo Oyewole, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on International Cooperation, along with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and other stakeholders, has called for increased investment in leadership education and personality development as a strategy to rescue the nation’s struggling economy.

    Speaking at the 2024 Corporate Charisma Conference organized by the Institute of Personality Development and Customer Relationship Management in Ibadan, Oyewole emphasized the transformative potential of leadership education in addressing Nigeria’s challenges.

    According to Oyewole, effective leadership and personal development are essential for driving positive change and fostering sustainable growth. 

    He stressed that equipping a new generation of leaders with the skills, knowledge, and character to navigate the country’s complex issues is critical to achieving national progress.

    He further highlighted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of building a brighter future for Nigeria and its citizens through impactful leadership and development programs.

    He noted that the role of leadership education and personal development in driving meaningful change cannot be overemphasized as government introduced various initiatives aimed at addressing the country challenges.

    He said, “All across Africa particularly Nigeria what people are looking for is a competent leader, it is important for us to look at what are the qualities and values of a good leader, because leadership is not just about title or individuals but about looking holistic into the society, how someone’s actions, positions, and comportment can inform the society.

    “Ieadership don’t just start in a minute when you are elected, but rather a process which should start long before I because is a process and leaders must have spirit of empathy, listen to the people, care for the people they lead and take other responsibilities.”

    In his remark, NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku said there are some values and atributes that define a leader but lamented that those basic values and honor is missing in political leadership.

    He urged the political class to begin to lean those values and fundamental and embrace it because it will be better for Nigeria and humanity generally.

    Read Also: Ekpa: We’re monitoring Finland trial, says FG

    “Technology has chance the dynamics of how we exist as a leader and how we impact our followers, trainin yourself is important, you must learn new things, you must drop certain habit that no longer fit into the new culture and we must relearn every day particularly to survive in the situation of the present economy.”

    Meanwhile, the IPDCRM President, Dr. Ayobami Owolabi while speaking on the theme: Investment in Leadership Education and Personality Developement: A Valuable Asset, Timely Rescue Anchor, in a Depressed Economy said the event will serve as solution to Nigeria and global economic challenges.

    He however said it will provide peace for economic recovery for Nigeria to navigate her current economic challenges. 

  • NIPR named finalist for Global Alliance World PR & Communication Award

    NIPR named finalist for Global Alliance World PR & Communication Award

    The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has been named a finalist for the Global Alliance World Public Relations & Communication Awards.

    The NIPR was nominated for the Global Public Relations Association of the Year prize alongside the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), among others.

    The Global Public Relations Association of the Year category honors organisations that exhibit exemplary public relations and communication efforts.

    The NIPR was nominated for its innovative use of media relations and stakeholder engagement strategies to combat quackery in the industry.

    The institute has effectively leveraged cutting-edge public relations tactics to enhance the profession’s standing in Nigeria. 

    Led by Dr. Ike Naliaku, the NIPR has achieved milestones in a year, including governmental endorsements, mainstreaming the PR cadre in civil public services, and certifying PR professionals as spokespersons for top organizations.

    Additionally, the NIPR has inducted over 2,040 new members, comprising military generals, lawyers, and editors, while advancing professionalism.

    The Global Alliance World Public Relations & Communication Awards recognises campaigns that exemplifies strategic planning, creativity, and transformative business results.

    A panel of industry experts, thought leaders, and academics judged the submissions, which evaluated over 100 entries from 20 countries worldwide. 

    Winners will be announced during the World Public Relations Forum 2024 awards ceremony, scheduled for November 20 at the luxurious Merusaka Nusa Dua in Bali, Indonesia.

  • Battle against fake news is for all, says NIPR

    Battle against fake news is for all, says NIPR

    The President and Chairman of Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku has called for a synergy among critical stakeholders to curb spread of fake news in the society.

    Speaking recently at the UN House Abuja during the premiere of When Wolves Cry, a pan-African movie project that is aimed to address the challenges of fake news on the continent, Dr. Neliaku said the multiplicity of platforms through which fake news are shared has made it difficult for a single body to fight it.

    Read Also: UN urges investment in digital technology, others for Nigeria ‘s food security

    “It is no longer for one person or organisation to handle. It is a responsibility that is now before all of us. Fake news has a brother, which is disinformation has a sister, misinformation and a cousin, which is propaganda. We must fight all these together with the needed energy and it is everybody’s responsibility to do so at this material point in time”, he stated.

    The NIPR boss while cautioning that responsible communication must be deeply imbibed, urged that individuals should avoid utterances that they would not take responsibility for. He commended the producer/director, Eyaba Emmanuel and his team for embarking on the project. He also called on relevant agencies, including the UNESCO to embark on capacity building for journalists, which will help in curbing the spread of fake news.

  • NIPR inducts 2,040 new members in eight months

    NIPR inducts 2,040 new members in eight months

    The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), led by its President Dr. Ike Neliaku, has inducted an unprecedented 2,040 new members in eight months.

    This was disclosed in Abuja at the second Diamond Anniversary Induction for media and allied practitioners. Image Merchants Promotion Limited CEO, Yushau Shuaib, and Nigerian Air Force spokesperson, AVM Edward Gabkwet, received NIPR Diamond Award of Excellence in Professional Practice.

    Dignitaries in attendance included former Ministers of Information, Frank Nweke jnr, Labaran Maku, Lai Mohammed, and Chukwuemeka Chikelu, who received an Honorary Fellowship Award.

    NIPR Membership Committee Chairman, Maryam Sanusi recalled that the induction process began on December 1, 2023 with a virtual ceremony for 265 new members, followed by the induction of 32 Police PROs on December 13, 2023, and a special induction of 25 members on January 16, 2024.

    Read Also: Aug 1 planned protest similar to #EndSARS, governors warn

    There was a virtual inauguration of 228 members on March 22 and 46 ISDEVCOM (Institute of Strategic Development Communications) scholars on April 18. The Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRWeek) in Abeokuta on April 25 witnessed the addition of 52 new members.

    Others were special Diamond Anniversary inductions, which took place on June 20 and July 11 with 605 and 540 new members, respectively. The most recent investiture occurred on July 22, with 94 Babcock University graduates joining the institute.

    Earier, the NIPR welcomed 153 student members during inductions held at the University of Benin, Mcpherson University, Crescent University, Chrisland University, and Moshood Abiola University during the NPRWeek celebrations.

    In her remark, Sanusi said: “This is a testament to the increasing recognition and importance of public relations in Nigeria. Under the council led by Dr. Ike Neliaku, in less than 12 months, we made it a priority to expand our reach, embrace new talents, and empower the next generation of PR professionals.”

    Since August 2023, when the Neliaku-led executive assumed office, the NIPR has strengthened its influence and impact on the country’s communication landscape, with impactful activities such as the fight against quackery in the public relations industry.

    Apart from pioneering the National Spokesperson Summit and Awards and NPRWeek, the institute signed an agreement with the Global Alliance for Public Relations and African Public Relations Association (APRA) towards establishing a Public Relations University and Leadership Academy in Nigeria.

    The NIPR launched “REBIRTH Nigeria” to reposition Africa’s biggest nation through values re-orientation and promote made-in-Nigeria products, and has also established the Young Professionals Initiative to nurture the next generation of PR experts.

    The institute secured several partnerships with public and private stakeholders in commemoration of its 60th anniversary, which included a long walk and planting of 60 trees across major cities on June 1 to sustain the environment.

  • Business mogul Damara becomes NIPR honorary fellow

    Business mogul Damara becomes NIPR honorary fellow

    Business mogul and Managing Director/CEO, Mesotho Group Limited, Hon. Jerry Joseph Damara, has been conferred with the prestigious honorary Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), foremost Public Relations professional body in Africa.

    The honour was conferred on him in Abuja with other eminent Nigerians  as part of events marking the 60th anniversary of the Institute with the theme: ” Public Relations, value re-orientation and economic transformation.”

    The NIPR’s honorary Fellowship is the highest honour reserved for individuals who have used their fields to made significant contributions to the advancement of the Public Relations profession in Nigeria and beyond

    The former lawmaker, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Kugbo International market, was honoured for passionately driving strategic development initiatives with investments in real estate and infrastructure amd in other sectors,creating jobs and bolstering trade relations across Nigeria and beyond.

    The award was conferred on Damara, also known as Kaura Kaltungo , by the NIPR National President and Chairman of Council, Dr Ike Neliaku after his  glowing  citation was read.

    Read Also: Sen Ukachukwu Bags NIPR fellowship award 

    “As CEO of Kugbo International Market, Hon. Damara envisions Africa’s largest market, a transformative project enhancing regional commerce. This endeavor involves extensive infrastructure investment and logistical planning, positioning it to attract global traders.

    “Hon. Jerry Joseph Damara’s contributions at Mesotho Group Limited and Kugbo International Market reflect a commitment to advancing Nigeria’s economic landscape through transformative initiatives, poised to leave a lasting impact on the continental market infrastructure and business development,” the citation reads in part.

    The Diamond Anniversary fellowship was conferred on Damara with notable Nigerians, including Dr Yayale Ahmed, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation(SGF), Prof. Justin Green,President of Global Alliance, Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu,  Nasarawa State federal lawmaker and  former Ministers of Information, Frank Nweke II and Labaran Maku, among others.