In an effort to reshape Nigeria’s image, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has pledged its support to the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR). The Secretary to the Commission, Mrs. Rose Oriaran-Anthony, expressed this commitment during a meeting with the newly appointed President of the NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, and his delegation at the INEC headquarters in Abuja on December 6, 2023.
Mrs. Oriaran-Anthony, a longstanding member of the NIPR, emphasized the pivotal role the Institute plays in nation-building. She acknowledged that the Commission, at this crucial juncture, cannot afford to work in isolation and stressed the imperative of collaboration with the NIPR to achieve common goals. Her comments underscored the belief that the NIPR’s expertise is crucial in addressing the challenges facing Nigeria’s international reputation.
NIPR’s Crucial Role in Nation Building Recognized by INEC
Mrs. Oriaran-Anthony’s endorsement of the NIPR’s initiatives, such as the Rebirth Nigeria project and the National Spokespersons Summit, reflects a shared understanding of the urgent need to address the tarnished image of Nigeria on the global stage. The INEC Secretary lamented the current state of the country’s reputation, emphasizing the wealth of talent and potential that exists within Nigeria. She expressed her optimism that the NIPR, through initiatives like Rebirth Nigeria, could not only enhance the country’s image but also instill confidence in Nigerians abroad.
Mrs. Oriaran-Anthony’s acknowledgment of the challenges ahead and her call for courage and firmness in implementing NIPR’s programs highlighted the resistance to change in the country. Her emphasis on the need to dispel the negative tag attached to Nigeria as one of the most corrupt nations emphasized the importance of effective communication and image management, which the NIPR aims to address through its initiatives.
NIPR President’s Vision of a New Dawn
Dr. Ike Neliaku, the new President of the NIPR, outlined the Institute’s new vision, aptly named “Vision of the New Dawn,” during the meeting with INEC. He explained that the Institute, under his leadership, is dedicated to ensuring that the practice of Public Relations contributes significantly to nation-building. The adoption of three crucial programs, namely the Rebirth Nigeria project, the Spokespersons Summit, and the Enforcement of the NIPR Act, reflects a comprehensive approach to address the challenges facing the profession.
Dr. Neliaku highlighted the collapse of value orientation in the country, expressing regret that accepted values no longer align with what they ought to be. The emphasis on value reorientation through the Rebirth Nigeria project signals the Institute’s commitment to instilling positive values in the society, contributing to a holistic approach to rebuilding Nigeria’s image.
Ambitious Targets and the Need for National Support
Mrs. Oriaran-Anthony acknowledged the ambitious targets set by the new leadership of the NIPR and stressed their significance for the country’s progress. While recognizing the challenges ahead, she urged national support for the NIPR’s initiatives, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between institutions to achieve meaningful change.
Her caution that the NIPR leadership must be courageous and firm in implementing their plans underscores the anticipated resistance to change. The recognition that many Nigerians may resist change due to comfort zone considerations and the assertion that Nigeria should not be labeled as one of the most corrupt nations highlight the urgency of the NIPR’s mission in reshaping public perceptions.
Historical Ties and Recognition of Past Contributions
Dr. Neliaku, in welcoming Mrs. Oriaran-Anthony back to her base as a prominent member, emphasized her historical contributions to the NIPR, dating back 30 years. This acknowledgment underscores the continuity and importance of collaborative efforts in the pursuit of the Institute’s goals. The recognition of past contributions also serves to strengthen the bonds between the NIPR and influential figures like Mrs. Oriaran-Anthony.
The meeting’s focus on historical ties signals the importance of building on established foundations and leveraging the wealth of experience within the NIPR for effective image repositioning. It also reflects a commitment to inclusivity and collaboration across generations in advancing the Institute’s objectives.
A Collective Call for National Transformation
The collaborative efforts between INEC and the NIPR, as demonstrated in this meeting, represent a collective call for national transformation. The recognition of the challenges, coupled with a commitment to ambitious programs by the NIPR, highlights the urgency of reshaping Nigeria’s image. The emphasis on courage, firmness, and national support underscore the complexities of this task. As the NIPR strives to implement its vision of a new dawn, the collaborative spirit with INEC sets a positive tone for the broader national effort required to build a reinvigorated and positively perceived Nigeria on the global stage.
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