*As NUJ welcomes development, says both bodies remain the greatest catalysts for positive change
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), has unfolded its programmes for 2024, urging the media to join hands with it to propagate poait8ve image for the country.
President of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, made the statements when he paid a courtesy call in the national leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at its national secretariat in Jahi, Abuja.
In unfolding the programmes which spans conferences, seminars, symposia among other, Dr. Neliaku enjoined all professional bodies to rise up and bring in their programmes help build our nation’s leadership, governance, national development.
He stated that the NIPR took its operating programmes from the name Nigeria, which is why it seeks to primarily add value to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and asked journalista to avoid sensationalism in order to assist build a better Nigeria.
Among the programmes limed up, the NIPR boss said they would before the end of the month organise a national spokespersons award to bring to consciousness that the atmosphere of violent communication is adverse to the country.
“We have discovered that several spokespersons are driven only by projecting only their principals in positive light, while others are held in the negative.
“That is why we want to hold a national spokespersons summit and awards. This is because we have to recognise those who have done well and use them as icons or templates to promote the image of FRN. “We are hosting this event from the 26th to 28th of this month in Abuja.
“We are hoping that at the end of the summit, those who are already spokespersons and their successors will have a good reference material to guide them in their work.
“We are also set to hold the PR Week. We are expecting people from outside the country ans this programmed will be hosted in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
“This is to boost genuine investments in the country; we seek to use public relations to reinvent the economy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“About 2,000 delegates are expected at the event.
“We believe the NIPR is in a position to drive the economic recovery of this country, through reputation management.
“Next is Rebirt Nigeria. This is one programme we seek to reinvent the value Orientation of Nigeria, comprising of value reorientation, operation excellence in service delivery, citizenship and patronage of made in Nigeria.
“We shall also host our Diamond Anniversary Cerebration. After clocking 60 years, we want to dedicate the entire month of June to do this programme.
“We also ppan to host Nigeria Reputation Fair. We are having this programme in collaboration with the Kwara State government”.
Neliaku explained further that in order to boost professionalism in public relations, “the NIPR plans to set up a finishing school, just like what we have at the Nigeria Law School.
“We are establishing this institution so that graduates in mass communication, advertising, communication arts, etc, can come and specialise in Public Relations, and this institution will eventually grow to become Public Relations Univeristy”.
In extending hands of fellowship to the NUJ he announced a waiver to journalists and Editors who would like to enrol into the membership of the NIPR, saying the decision was taken at the NIPR Council meeting so as to further deepen their relationships with the media and promote professionalism in both industries.
Resoonding, the National President of the NUJ, Dr. Chris Isiguzo, noted that the visit has further showcased the cordial relationship between the two esteemed organisations, stressing that they both showcase national ideals based on understanding and collaboration through the dissemination of accurate communication and effective reportage, respectively.
He expressed confidence that the meeting will serve as catalyst for both organisations to advance the cause of press freedom, promote ethical journalism and advance the practice of both professions.
Isiguzo also commended the NIPR President for his deep understanding of what to do to bring synergy between the NUJ and NIPR, stressing that it makes for better nationhood and development.
He further gave endorsement to the proposals and assured of the support of the NUJ in the upcoming programmes of the NIPR, stressing that attitudinal change remains sine qua none for Nigeria to move forward.
