ABUJA – The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has reiterated its strong stance against the appointment of unlicensed and unregistered professionals as spokespersons, particularly within the country’s security services. The institute revealed that its newly-inaugurated Enforcement and Compliance Committee would actively identify organizations and individuals violating the law, ensuring they face legal consequences.
In a letter sent to security chiefs on Friday, seen by PRNigeria, Dr. Ike Neliaku, NIPR President/Chairman of the Governing Council, and Major General Chris Olukolade (rtd), Chairman, NIPR Compliance and Enforcement Committee, emphasized the institute’s commitment to upholding professionalism. The letter offered a partnership to build and sustain the reputation and image of federal entities.
Addressed to key figures, including General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defense Staff, and heads of various security and paramilitary services, the memo urged establishments to comply with the institute’s advice by the end of March. Failure to do so would lead to alignment with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Practitioners Act of 1990.
The memo highlighted the legal consequences outlined in the NIPR Act, stating that anyone practicing as a public relations practitioner without NIPR membership would be deemed guilty of an offense, leading to fines, imprisonment, or both. The institute emphasized the criminalization of employing or assigning unregistered individuals to public relations roles, warning organizations to correct any appointments violating the NIPR Act by March 31, 2024.
The letter concluded by assuring recipients that the NIPR National Secretariat is available for further clarifications, guidance, and support to help organizations achieve full compliance with the law.
