Special Adviser to the Kogi State Governor on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah has emerged Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Kogi State Chapter.
The inauguration ceremony, held at Government House in Lokoja, marked the formal reconstitution of the state chapter following efforts by stakeholders to revive and reposition the institute in Kogi State.
Speaking after taking the oath of office, Isah described his emergence as both an honour and a call to service aimed at strengthening the public relations profession and restoring the vibrancy of the institute in the state.
He said the inauguration marks the beginning of a new phase, emphasising the need for unity, innovation, ethical conduct and collective responsibility among members.
Isah assured members that the leadership would focus on strengthening the chapter through professional development initiatives, stakeholders engagement, mentorship for younger practitioners and increased institutional visibility.
He called on members of the institute to set aside personal interests and work together to rebuild the chapter and uphold the ideals of the profession.
According to him, public relations remain critical to nation building, strategic communication, conflic resolution and reputation management, especially in an era challenged by misinformation, digital disruption and declining public trust.
Isah commended the national leadership of the institute and stakeholders for their support and confidence in him.
He also acknowledged notable pioneers and stakeholders who sustained the chapter through difficult times and whose sacrifices have kept the institute active over the years.
Representing the President and Chairman of Council, Dr. Ike Neliaku , Chairman of the Chapter Development and Support Committee, Dr. Ahmad Sajoh, commended stakeholders in the state for sustaining the chapter and facilitating its reactivation.
He reiterated the institute’s position that professional public relations practice in Nigeria is regulated by law, warning against unlicensed practice.
Earlier, the Registrar of the Institute, Chief Uzoma Onyegbadue, urged members to uphold ethical standards of the profession and promote unity within the chapter.
Similarly, the Chairman of the NIPR FCT Chapter, Mr. Stanley Ogadigo, commended members of the NIPR in Kogi State for their determination toward rebuilding the chapter and reaffirmed the support of the FCT Chapter toward the growth and development of NIPR in the state.
The inauguration ceremony featured the administration of the oath of office on members of the Executive Committee by the Registrar of the Institute, Chief Uzoma Onyegbadue, formally inaugurating the new leadership to oversee the affairs of the chapter.
The inauguration was attended by public relations practitioners, media professionals, government officials, stakeholders, lecturers and students from Mass Communication Departments of various institutions in the state.
