The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has formally inducted 605 new members into the profession, emphasising the importance of professionalism and an end to quackery in Public Relations (PR) profession.

This was the focus at the Diamond Anniversary Special Induction of the institute in Abuja on Thursday.

The President of NIPR, Dr Ike Neliaku, said that eliminating quackery in the PR profession was to ensure that only qualified and properly trained individuals speak for their organisations, whether government or private.

This, he said would enhance the credibility and effectiveness of the practice.

Neliaku noted that relationship was the hallmark of public relations, hence the need for the new inductees to maintain the highest standards of professional conduct and integrity.

He emphasised that members should avoid practices or behaviors that could harm the reputation of the Institute or the PR profession.

Neliaku stressed the importance of adhering to the highest standards of accuracy and tru
th in all professional activities.

He urged members to respect core values and uphold the ethical principles that underpin the profession.

The NIPR boss highlighted the critical role of maintaining public trust and credibility, reminding members that their actions reflected not only on themselves but also on the entire profession.

Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, Vice-Chairman, NIPR Governing Board, underscored the importance of the event, noting its adaptation to contemporary needs and its alignment with the institute’s diamond anniversary celebrations.

Dandaura highlighted several key aspects of 2024 Hybrid Induction Format which for the first time allowed greater participation, while reflecting modern event-hosting practices.

According to him, the Diamond Anniversary of NIPR held special significance as it coincided with the 60th anniversary of the institute which added historical weight to the proceedings.

‘A total of 605 new members were inducted, with 353 joining online and 198 attending in person. This r
eflects the institute’s significant growth and expanded reach.

‘Highlights of our anniversary celebration is a seminar on Public Relations, Value Orientation, and Economic Transformation, aimed at professional development.

‘We will also be hosting a Dinner and Recognition; an evening event chaired by General Yakubu Gowon, honoring distinguished icons in the field,’ Dandaura said.

He also said that the activities were designed to celebrate the NIPR’s contributions to national development over the past 60 years, while also fostering professional growth and public engagement in the field of public relations.

Mr Ali Muhammad Ali, Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), expressed delight at participating in the event and celebrating the 60th anniversary of the institute.

Ali described the occasion as a milestone and emphasised the importance of celebrating 60 years of the institute’s impactful existence.

He commended the institute for its growth and influence over the past six decades, noting
its substantial contributions to shaping public communication narratives.

Ali commended everyone involved in making the celebration a success, emphasising NAN’s alignment with the NIPR in upholding factual reporting as a cornerstone of their mission.

The NAN MD underscored the agency’s commitment to maintaining credibility and authenticity in its reporting, amidst the prevalence of fake news in today’s digital age.

Alhaji Mohammed Malagi, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, noted the dual responsibility of the newly inducted members of the NIPR.

Malagi who was represented by Mr Baba Ndace, the Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), stressed the importance of speaking positively and forcefully about the country.

He acknowledged the challenges faced by Nigeria, as recognised by the President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Tinubu but highlighted ongoing efforts to address the challenges.

Malagi urged the inductees not to contribute to negative narratives about the nation, asserting tha
t while no country was perfect, Nigeria’s beauty and potential should be the focal points.

He underscored the critical role of the new NIPR members in collaborating with the Ministry of Information to restore trust in public discourse.

He mentioned that one of the ministry’s primary goals has been to rebuild public confidence in communication, fostering trust in institutions and media outlets.

Malagi called on the inductees to take pride in their nation and contribute to its positive image, stating that the NIPR is a platform for mentorship and professional growth.

Goodwill messages were given by representatives of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, President, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Mr Chris Isiguzo, Chairman, House Committee on Public Affairs, Rep. Rotimi Akintunde.

Others are the Nigerian Television Authority, Africa Independent Television among others.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria