NIPR Fixes March 2024 for National  Spokespersons’ Summit-Awards, Inaugurates Committees

NIPR Fixes March 2024 for National  Spokespersons’ Summit-Awards, Inaugurates Committees

Dr. Ike Neliaku, the President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), has announced the official dates for the inaugural   Nigeria National Spokespersons’ Awards (NNSA) scheduled from March 25th to 28th, 2024.

This is part of the historic deal with the Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR) – publishers of PRNigeria, Economic Confidential, Spokespersons’ Digest and other titles – for the transition of the annual Spokespersons’ Communication Awards (SCA) into NNSA.

Speaking as the Chief Host of the 5th edition of the Security and   Emergency Management Awards (SAEMA) and 3rd SCA held in Abuja on Thursday, Dr Neliaku said it is important to celebrate and acknowledge PR practitioners and spokespersons in their efforts to promote the image of their respective organisations as well as protect the image of Nigeria.

He noted that the Spokespersons’ Summit and Awards will promote excellence in communication and encourage the next generation of skilled practitioners.

He said two dedicated committees have been formed to ensure the success of the event, with representatives from both NIPR and IMPR.

“The Award Coordinating Committee, led by Segun Mcmedal former chairman of NIPR in Lagos State and the Jurors Committee, chaired by Prof. Mabel Evwierhoma, feature renowned communication experts and scholars who will oversee the selection process for the awards”.

Others were, Comptroller Joseph Attah, a fellow of the Institute;  Mohammed Dahiru Lawal, the Head of Fact-check and Investigation at PRNigeria; Saad Shuaib, Business Manager at PRNigeria; Mrs. Ekalome Udo; and Mr. Stanley Ogadigwu, FCT NIPR Chairman who will serve as Secretary of the committee.

While the jurist committee will be supported by Prof. Anthony Igwefe, Dr Matins Akinam, Dr. Saudat Abdulbaki, Mr. Kabir Abdulsalam former coordinating secretary of SCA and Mr. Ishola Ayodele will serve as members while the Managing Editor of PRNigeria, Mr. Abdulrahman Abdulraheem, will serve as Secretary.

Speaking on the collaboration, the president saif, “This event will recognizes both the living and the late. For those who have passed, it honors them for their well-spent lives. We often wait until someone’s gone to appreciate them, but it’s better to do so while they’re still here. The Institute is proud to be associated with this important program.

While commenting on the current Council’s Agenda, he said, “Upon assuming office, the current council pledged to develop a significant agenda that will bring essential value to the institute in three key areas: reputation, professional development, and financial sustainability.

He said council aim to utilize this platform to promote the activities of our members, empowering both the institute and its members.

According to him, “To this end, you could recalled that two weeks ago, the NIPR signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Image Merchants Promotion due to their outstanding work, particularly in promoting the institute and the profession.

“It is from this note we partner to organize the National Spokesperson Summit and Award to building upon their remarkable “Spokesperson of the Year” concept, to expand it into a national award.

“This is to recognize the importance of spokespersons in nation-building and development.

“This initiative emphasizes the crucial role of communication expertise and aims to groom the next generation of skilled spokespersons who can not only represent their organizations but also speak on behalf of the Nigerian people.

“We want all spokespersons to tell their own stories to avoid having others speak for them.

By hosting this summit with the support of the Ministry of Information and National Reorientation, we aim to empower spokespersons at all levels, from the national government to local government offices, to effectively communicate their narratives and contribute to national development.

Dr.Neliaku also commended the Information Minister, Alhaji Muhammed Idris’ role and expertise in managing the nation’s information.

His words, “We are fortunate to have the Minister of Information as a fellow NIPR member. He understands the importance of communication in governance and has made it a top priority, moving beyond mere propaganda.

“His background in information management is evident in his effective handling of information and his ability to de-escalate tensions.

“As a former NIPR chapter chairman in Kaduna state, he possesses a deep understanding of his role and responsibilities.

“We saw his communication skills in action during the recent COP28 conference in Dubai, where he effectively addressed the controversy surrounding the Nigerian delegation by providing clear and categorized information.

In his acceptance Speech, the chairman of the working committee, Mcmedal, expressed their commitment to fulfilling the president’s vision.

“He emphasized their dedication to exceeding expectations and ensuring a successful event.

He further highlighted their plans to scale up the event, making it more vibrant, impactful, and widely covered in both integrated communication channels and the general public.

Acknowledging the need for collaboration, he requested the support of all attendees, including representatives from various agencies.

He said, “We cannot achieve this goal alone. We require your support to make this event a resounding success. With the majority of relevant agencies present here today, we are optimistic about receiving your favorable response when we begin seeking your assistance.” he said.

By PRNigeria