FG Applauds NIPR over Historic Initiatives for Public Relations Practice
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has expressed his enthusiasm for the recent developments in public relations practice in Nigeria, as championed by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
In a statement over the weekend, he highlighted several significant advancements that will elevate the field of public relations in the country.
Firstly, Minister Idris welcomed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management. This collaboration aims to establish a degree-awarding academy for public relations practice in Nigeria, providing a platform for professionals to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field.
Furthermore, the Minister applauded the election of Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, a Nigerian, as the Secretary-General of the African Public Relations Association (APRA). This achievement not only reflects Nigeria’s growing influence in the field of PR but also showcases the expertise and talent within the country.
In addition to these milestones, Minister Idris announced that PR has now been designated as a cadre in the Federal Civil Service, effective from December 2023. The Information Officer Cadre has been re-designated as the ‘Information and Public Relations Officer Cadre,’ and the Executive Cadre as the ‘Executive Officer (Information and Public Relations).’ This recognition highlights the importance of pr in the government’s communication strategy and underscores the vital role it plays in shaping public perception.
The NIPR played a crucial role in advocating for this change, and their efforts deserve commendation. By championing the professionalization of pr, Nigeria continues to lead the way in strengthening the practice not only at home but also across Africa.
During a recent meeting with the President of the African Public Relations Association, Mr. Arik Karani, Minister Idris received praise for Nigeria’s proactive approach to pr. Mr. Karani acknowledged that Nigeria was the first country in Africa to enact laws that professionalize pr. Only last year did Zambia follow suit, and currently, Kenya is in the process of passing a similar bill. Nigeria’s commitment to elevating pr practice sets an example for other African nations.
The Minister further assured the public that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will continue to create a conducive environment for professionals within Nigeria’s communications industry to thrive. These recent developments not only signify Nigeria’s dedication to advancing the field but also demonstrate its commitment to effective communication and reputation management.
NIPR) was established in 1963. The body attained the status of a Chartered Institute in June 1990 through Decree No. 16 (now an Act of the National Assembly) from which it derives the power and responsibility to register members, set parameters of knowledge to acquire to qualify to practise, regulate the practice and development of the PR Profession as well monitor professional conducts through an established Code of Ethics, amongst others.
