NIPR Inducts 515 Members, Restates Commitment to Leadership Building
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) on Friday inducted 515 new associate members in Nasarawa State.
The inductees, scholars of the Institute of Strategic and Development Communication (ISDEVCOM), were admitted into the NIPR as part of the Institute’s 2025 first-quarter induction program.
The ceremony was held at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, under the framework of an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NIPR and the institution.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Ike Neliaku, President and Chairman of the NIPR Governing Council, emphasized that leadership remains Nigeria’s foremost challenge, hampering the country’s growth and development.
He urged the newly inducted members to see themselves as part of the next generation of leaders who must provide solutions rather than add to the nation’s difficulties.
“Our decision to induct these professionals is not just about expanding the membership of the Institute; it is about preparing the next generation of leaders,” Neliaku stated.
He said public relations is at the core of leadership, and no one can be an effective leader without being an effective communicator.
He highlighted that the NIPR’s commitment to leadership development led to the establishment of its University of Public Relations and Leadership.
The institution was created to bridge the leadership deficit in Nigeria, Dr. Neliaku said.
According to him, leadership is not just about holding positions of authority but about the ability to communicate vision, inspire people, and drive positive change.
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The NIPR President charged the new members to use their skills to contribute meaningfully to national progress wherever they find themselves.
He stressed that public relations professionals have a critical role to play in shaping policies, influencing public opinion, and fostering national unity.
“Nigeria will overcome its leadership challenges, but it requires individuals who are ready to uphold integrity, communicate effectively, and lead by example,” Neliaku added.
He noted that nations progressing globally are those where effective communicators are leading the way.
He further advised the inductees not to be part of those who drag Nigeria down due to its existing problems.
Dr. Neliaku urged them to be agents of positive transformation.
He noted that their training in public relations should be a tool for nation-building, promoting ethical leadership, and enhancing national development.
“As you take on this professional responsibility, remember that public relations is not just about managing perceptions—it is about shaping realities,” Neliaku said.
He emphasized that their words, actions, and ability to communicate effectively will determine how much progress Nigeria makes as a nation.
NSUK Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Abdullahi Modibbo, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sa’adatu Liman, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to supporting the Institute in achieving its objectives.
He emphasized the importance of working as partners in progress to enhance professional development and leadership training.
He noted that public relations has played a critical role in Nigeria’s socio-economic growth by fostering effective communication, bridging gaps between institutions, and promoting national cohesion.
