The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering national development through strategic communications and public relations practices.
The Chairman of Edo State chapter of NIPR, Dr. James-Wisdom Abhulimen, made this declaration at the institute’s maiden public lecture with the theme, “Public Relations, Tool for National Development in a Depressed Economy,” on Wednesday.
He said, “NIPR has been instrumental in shaping the narratives and driving positive changes in Nigeria. Practitioners creates synergy and mutual understanding between the government and critical stakeholders, build trust and enlist stakeholder support and partnership in the implementation of development programmes.
“By promoting dialogue, transparency, and accountability in government, the Institute plays a key role in enhancing public trust and confidence in institutions, thereby facilitating sustainable development outcomes”
The guest lecturer, Dr Obajide Ilugbo, stated that effective public relations strategies can serve as a catalyst for sustainable development goals even in the face of economic challenges, adding that strategic communication, reputation management, and stakeholder engagement can contribute to the revitalization of the Nigerian economy.
The Public Relations Officer of Igbinedion University, Okada said the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations remains steadfast in its commitment to championing the principles of ethical communication, integrity, and excellence, assuring that NIPR will continue to be a catalyst for national development, driving positive changes and shaping a brighter future for all Nigerians.
The lecture covered wide ranging issues including, “understanding the role of public relations in national development, leveraging strategic communication to promote economic growth, building and managing reputation in a depressed economy and engaging stakeholders for sustainable development in a depressed economy.”
Earlier, the Chairman, Education and Conference Committee of Edo State NIPR, Dr Josephine Adeyeye, said the lecture marked a significant moment for the institute as “we come together to engage in intellectual discourse, exchange ideas, and foster a deeper understanding of public eelations as a tool for national development in a depressed Emeconomy.”
She said the importance of the public lecture cannot be overstated, particularly in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, where knowledge serves as a most valuable currency.