The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, on Saturday, urged federal ministries, departments, and agencies to desist from appointing uncertified professionals as spokespersons and heads of communication units.
Raising concerns over the infiltration of unqualified individuals into the profession, the NIPR warned that practising public relations without certification could lead to severe legal consequences, including prosecution and imprisonment.
The National President of the institute, Ike Neliaku, issued this caution during the induction ceremony of 421 new members and officers of the Federal Ministry of Information in Abuja.
According to Dr Neliaku, public relations professionals operating without certification from the institute are deemed quacks under federal law.
He said, “People are beginning to appreciate public relations as a solution-oriented profession. We have been advocating for qualified individuals to come forward and become chartered. According to the law, anyone practising without certification is a quack.
“The law provides for criminal prosecution of individuals practising public relations without certification. Conviction could lead to a fine, imprisonment, or both. Importantly, once convicted, a person becomes an ex-convict, and the associated stigma is serious. This underscores the importance of compliance.”
Earlier in his remarks, the Minister of Information, Idris Mohammed, commended the NIPR for its role in fostering effective communication in governance. Represented by the ministry’s Director of Public Relations and Protocol,
Suleiman Haruna, the minister also highlighted the challenges posed by fake news and misinformation in the digital age.
He said, “We operate in a dynamic environment where the speed and scale of information dissemination present both opportunities and challenges. The digital age empowers citizens with access to information but also fuels misinformation and disinformation.
“As professionals, you are tasked with ensuring that truth prevails over falsehood and facts triumph over fiction. To the newly inducted members, I urge you to uphold the values of the NIPR and serve as ambassadors of truth, integrity, and excellence.
“Remember, your work reflects not just on your organisation but on the entire nation. In an information-driven world, the role of public relations professionals has never been more critical. Use your platforms to foster unity and project Nigeria positively on the global stage.”
One of the newly inducted members was Mrs Emmanuel Arukwe, the pioneer Managing Director of NNPC Foundation Limited, who was honoured as an honorary fellow of the institute.
Speaking to The PUNCH, Arukwe highlighted her foundation’s impact, particularly in education and youth empowerment. She noted that over 500,000 members of the National Youth Service Corps had been trained under its programmes.
She said, “The NNPC Foundation has made a significant impact, especially in education. For instance, we have trained over 500,000 NYSC members on business management.
“We are also collaborating with partners to provide opportunities for corps members to manage businesses at discounted rates. Additionally, we have ventured into other areas like Liquefied Natural Gas, particularly Compressed Natural Gas, to expand opportunities. As a humanitarian organisation, we have achieved a great deal in fostering development and empowerment.”
