Follow Us on Google
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
At the 35th Anniversary Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) FCT Chapter, themed “Leadership for Inclusive Development and Nation Branding,” Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, emphasised the vital role of public relations practitioners as custodians of Nigeria’s narrative and agents of genuine nation branding.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Sam Hart, Kalu declared, “The members of the NIPR are the custodians of Nigeria’s narrative. You are the strategic architects, the discerning storytellers, and the essential reef builders who shape perceptions, both at home and abroad, that ultimately define our great nation’s reputation.” He congratulated the FCT chapter for its impactful legacy in shaping the country’s image.
Highlighting recent economic gains, Kalu cited the World Bank’s Nigeria Development Update, noting a 4.6% year-on-year growth in the last quarter of 2024 as “testament to the bold, albeit difficult reforms undertaken by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.” Yet he cautioned, “Growth without inclusion is merely a statistic. It is not development.”
He underscored the National Assembly’s commitment to ensuring economic progress translates to grassroots benefits: “Our mandate is to transform growth into access to primary health care for rural women, digital skills for young graduates in Kano, and financial inclusion for market traders nationwide.” He outlined reform priorities such as devolving power to local governments, enabling state police, and advancing gender inclusivity: “You cannot run Nigeria as a modern democracy if our women are shut out of our decision-making process.”
Addressing youth empowerment, Kalu noted, “With 70% of our population under 35 years, our greatest national asset is not oil or gas—it is our youth. We are legislating and advocating for the creative economy, digital rights, and youth participation.”
He challenged PR practitioners to move beyond image-making and become strategic partners in nation building: “We must hold our story. If we do not define the Nigerian brand as one of resilience, innovation, and culture, others will define it for us through the lens of our challenges.” He added, “Before we sell Nigeria to foreign investors, we must sell Nigeria to Nigerians.”
He called for “a renewed sense of patriotism that is not blind loyalty, but a shared commitment to the Nigerian project,” adding, “The strongest brand Nigeria can project to the world is a united people. When development touches the grassroots, and every Nigerian feels ownership in Project Nigeria, that is when our brand becomes unbeatable.”
Concluding, Kalu urged NIPR members, “Do not just discuss nation branding, build one truthful narrative, one strategic engagement, and one inclusive policy at a time. The House of Representatives stands ready to partner with you. Let us write a new chapter for our great nation.”
Other News
Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, represented by Education Commissioner Mallam Wadatau Madawaki, underscored NIPR’s critical role in sustaining high standards within the profession and reflecting on its achievements over 35 years. He praised the institute’s “journey of commitment and coordination” and the strategic conference theme, emphasising emotional intelligence for national progress.
President and Chairman of Council, Dr. Ike Neliaku, identified four challenges facing Nigeria: insecurity, food insufficiency, hope, and reputation. “Let us continue to have hope… I insist there is no country like Nigeria. This is the best country on earth because of the humanity of Nigerians.” On reputation, he stressed, “Reputation is a top national capital asset… Reputation is who people say you are when you are not there.”
He called for lawmakers to teach young people about the value of national reputation and highlighted the NIPR’s role as “reputation builders” through the Nigerian Reputation Management Group.
Senator Osita Izunaso (Imo West) emphasised inclusive leadership, pressing for increased representation for women and persons with disabilities. “Today National Assembly, the issue of reserve seat, special seat for women is at the front burner,” he said, advocating for greater gender and disability inclusion. On security, Izunaso highlighted collective responsibility and urged, “Nigeria should come first in whatever that you do. Not your religion. Our country should come first.”
He also distinguished between reputation and integrity, stating, “Reputation is not about what you say about me when I’m here. Reputation is what I do when I’m alone. Will I be able to defend that by integrity? Some people can fake integrity, but reputation is you don’t adjust anything…”
Justice Amina Adamu Augie (retd), Pro-Chancellor of Wigwe University, called for leadership prioritising fairness, equity, and participation in decision-making. She highlighted the role of nation branding, urging Nigerians to use cultural assets like music, cuisine, fashion, and literature to craft a unified national narrative.
NIPR FCT Chapter Chairman Stanley Ogadigbo praised the chapter’s diversity, reaffirming its commitment to societal impact and the tradition of addressing national issues through its annual conferences.
