NIPR Inaugurates ‘Expert Team’ to Analyze SAMOA Deal’s Impact on Nigeria

NIPR Inaugurates ‘Expert Team’ to Analyze SAMOA Deal’s Impact on Nigeria

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, has set up a technical team to study and analyze the samoa agreement which the federal government recently signed on behalf of Nigeria.

According to Dr. Ike Neliaku, President and Chairman of the NIPR Governing Council, the team of experts will assess the reputational implications of the deal on the country, and her citizens.

Neliaku disclosed this in Abuja at the “2nd NIPR Special Diamond Anniversary Induction for Media and Allied Practitioners,” where the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of PRNigeria/Economic Confidential, Alh. Yushau Shuaib, joined some select Nigerians to receive the NIPR “Outstanding Diamond Award”.

Shuaib was honoured for his “professional excellence” in Public Relations (PR) journalism practice, and was presented with an award plaque and certificate at the special ceremony, by Dr. Neliaku.

540 journalists and allied media practitioners, drawn from the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA; African Independent Television, AIT; News Agency of Nigeria, NAN; the Voice of Nigeria, VON; Channels TV; and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, among others, were inducted as NIPR’s new associate members.

In his speech, the NIPR President announced that their expert team will start its work tomorrow, and will advise the government on the reputational implications of the agreement.

“Our focus is the reputation and perception of our country because reputation is an asset. We have within our ranks lawyers, senior advocates, professionals, and even engineers,” he said.

Neliaku also disclosed that the NIPR will soon be organizing a “fireside chat” with all former Ministers of Information to share their experiences and insights, as the federal government’s ‘Chief Information Managers’, at various points.

A retired Police Commissioner, Dr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, while delivering ‘Induction Orientation Lecture’ noted that successful practice in public relations requires a blend of courage, strategic planning, analytical thinking, and a well-packaged presentation.

“In public relations, you must plan meticulously, think strategically, and present yourself professionally. Success in this field demands a focus on the art of communication. You must be articulate, knowledgeable, and prepared to teach others. This profession is not for the incompetent. Wherever you find yourself, it is unacceptable to settle for mediocrity.

“As professionals, you must commit to continuous professional development through mandatory courses and certifications. Failure to do so may hinder your growth and status in the profession,” Ojukwu, who also is the Provost, Police School of Public Relations, advised the newly-inducted NIPR members.