The Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) intends to bring legal action against those who manage media and engage in public relations (PR) but are not officially members of the organization.
During a courtesy visit to the LEADERSHIP Group offices in Abuja, Mr. Edward Olasunkanmi Adebanjo, the secretary of the National Planning Committee, made this declaration.
He emphasized that the idea was sparked by worries that many professionals in the field are operating without NIPR certification, even though they possess advanced degrees, which is against the law that establishes the legal foundation for their profession in Nigeria.
He emphasized the organization’s dedication to raising industry standards. “Regardless of one’s educational background, our enabling act clearly states that practicing PR in any form without NIPR membership is considered quackery.”
Adebanjo stated that preparations to file lawsuits against noncompliant practitioners and their companies beginning on April 1st further supported this position.
He pointed out that NIPR has established a committee headed by retired Major General Olukolade, with eminent members such as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Frank Mba, with a focus on advocacy and awareness, as a calculated step to address this issue.
The committee’s efforts, according to Adebanjo, have resulted in noteworthy interactions with prominent media executives and other members of the business, highlighting the value of NIPR membership for PR practitioners.
He did, however, point out that the NIPR is also committed to highlighting the importance of public relations to corporate success and economic development in addition to its ongoing campaign against unauthorized practice.
He stressed that the institute’s goal is to show how PR can help create positive reputations that support economic growth through its yearly NIPR week, using Rwanda’s post-genocide recovery and development as a great example.
The week-long event, which is set for April 22–26, according to Adebanjo, will include a number of programs designed to educate young professionals, discuss PR strategies with traditional leaders in Ogun State, and celebrate Nigerian culture via music and fashion.
According to him, these consist of a fashion display showcasing the traditional Adire cloth, training sessions with Obas, a mentorship program for people under 35, and concerts by well-known Nigerian musicians.