Segun McMedal: A Master Strategist for NIPR Governing Council
By Kabir Abdulsalam
My professional relationship with Olajide Segun McMedal began in earnest when he was appointed Chairman of the Planning Committee for the 2023 National Spokespersons Awards (NSAwards), hosted by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in collaboration with Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), publishers of PRNigeria and Spokespersons’ Digest.
What started as a formal engagement, since I am also a member of the award committee, quickly evolved into a deep respect for a man whose leadership is measured not by titles, but by tangible results. During the intense build-up to that national event, I witnessed McMedal’s relentless commitment—organizing, motivating, guiding, and, most importantly, delivering excellence at every stage.
It was clear to me then: Segun McMedal is more than a public relations professional. He is a strategist, a builder, and a quiet but powerful force for transformation.
As he now contests for a seat on the Governing Council of NIPR at the ongoing election in Uyo, I am convinced that his is the kind of leadership the Institute urgently needs.
McMedal’s career is rich with achievements that have shaped and elevated public relations practice in Nigeria. As the immediate past Chairman of the Lagos State Chapter of NIPR, he inherited a struggling branch and transformed it into a vibrant model of excellence. His leadership saw the revival and growth of flagship initiatives like the Lagos Public Relations Industry Gala and Awards (LaPRIGA) and the Nigeria Digital Public Relations Summit.
These weren’t just ceremonial events—they were movements that built community, expanded professional capacity, and elevated the status of public relations in Nigeria. Notably, his digital PR training initiative has produced over 730 Digital PR Ambassadors—a legacy of empowerment that speaks for itself.
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McMedal’s influence extends far beyond Lagos. Recently, he was appointed Strategic Book Ambassador for The Science of Public Relations: A Comprehensive Guide to Measurement and Evaluation by media intelligence expert, Philip Odiakose. In this role, he is championing the integration of measurement and evaluation into academic curricula and professional practice across Africa. His efforts include engaging universities, securing endorsements from key regulatory and professional bodies—such as NIPR, PRCAN, and ARCON—and promoting data-driven strategies within the profession.
Currently serving as Executive Director, Business Development, Operations, and Innovations at Chenist Communications, McMedal continues to offer groundbreaking solutions across multiple sectors. Whether in corporate boardrooms or professional conferences, he brings a unique blend of insight, strategic depth, and unwavering commitment to value creation.
His election manifesto is not just a promise of service—it is a blueprint for continuity and innovation. His agenda includes:
Youth Development & Mentorship – Cultivating a new generation of PR professionals grounded in knowledge, ethics, and courage.
Strengthening Private Sector Alliances – Positioning NIPR as a strategic partner to industry stakeholders.
Supporting Weaker Chapters – Ensuring no NIPR chapter is left behind.
Strategic Promotion of the Institute – Driving visibility and relevance through well-conceived programs and campaigns.
McMedal stands firmly behind the visionary leadership of NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku and Vice President Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura. He has offered himself as a dependable team player committed to building on the progress they have initiated.
In his own words: “I am tested, trusted, a team player, and a dependable professional. I will be available and fully committed to the mission ahead.”
This is not an ordinary campaign—it is the continuation of a legacy of service, a mission to advance the profession, and an opportunity to empower one of our finest minds to do even more.
Today, I write not merely as a colleague or friend, but as someone who has witnessed first-hand the value of Segun McMedal’s leadership. I urge every NIPR member in Uyo: Let us not miss this opportunity.
Olajide Segun McMedal’s candidacy offers experience, vision, and innovation—the future NIPR deserves.
Kabir Abdulsalam is with Spokespersons’ Digest, Abuja.
