By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Mr Afolabi Olajuwon is canvassing the support of other pratitioners to occupy the position of a Council member of the Institute during its forthcoming elections.
Afolabi who declared his intention for the prestigious position at a recent meeting of the Abuja Chapter of the NIPR, said he is qualified for the job given his educational background in Mass Communication and a Master’s Degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy, as well as a track record of dedicated service to the Institute.
Addressing the meeting, Afolabi who is the Spokesperson of the Budget Office of the Federation (BOF), noted that throughout his academic journey, he had acquired “a deep understanding of the principles and practices of public relations, honing my skills in effective communication, strategic planning, and relationship management”.
Speaking further, he said: “My studies in Mass Communication have armed me with the knowledge and expertise needed to navigate the ever changing landscape of public relations, while my Master’s degree has provided me with the necessary global perspectives to enhance the profession’s impact on an international scale.
“I am proud to have served our local chapter in various capacities, including as the Auditor, Financial Secretary, and Examiner. These experiences have provided me with invaluable insights into the inner workings of NIPR and the challenges faced by our members at the grassroots level. I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of effective public relations in driving positive change within our communities, and I am determined to leverage these experiences to represent and advocate for the interests of all NIPR members on the council.
“In addition to my involvement at the chapter level, I had the distinct honour of serving at the national level as the Secretary of the Restructuring Committee of NIPR National Secretariat. This role allowed me to contribute to the development and implementation of vital reforms within the organization.
“I gained valuable experience in navigating complex decision making processes, fostering meaningful collaborations, and ensuring that the voices of all members were considered and amplified. If elected to the council, I will bring this expertise and dedication to the table, ensuring that the diverse needs and aspirations of NIPR members are consistently addressed and effectively advanced”.
He pointed out that as a council member, his priorities will be centered around the following key objectives:
*Strengthening Professional Development: It may interest you to know that over the years, I have been lecturing and developing capacity as a resource person at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja, over 25 years experience, where I lectured on The Principles of Public Relations, Mass Media & National Development as well as Advertising Campaign, Planning and Execution at Post Graduate Levels. I am committed to advocating for robust professional development initiatives that enable NIPR members to enhance their skills and stay abreast of industry trends. By providing access to comprehensive training programs, workshops, and certifications, we can fortify the expertise of our members and promote excellence within the field of public relations.
*Promoting Ethical Practices: Upholding high ethical standards is integral to the credibility and reputation of public relations professionals. I will advocate for the strict adherence to ethical guidelines and facilitate the dissemination of ethical standards through comprehensive training and awareness campaigns, ensuring that our members maintain the utmost integrity in their practices.
*Championing Collaboration and Networking: Collaboration and networking are catalysts for growth and innovation. I am dedicated to fostering opportunities for NIPR members to connect, share best practices, and leverage collective expertise and resources. By facilitating partnerships with relevant stakeholders and forging links across industries, we can amplify our impact and enhance the visibility of our profession.
*Advocating for Recognition and Inclusion: I firmly believe in creating an inclusive and dynamic professional environment that recognizes the value and contributions of all NIPR members. I will strive to amplify the visibility of public relations professionals and promote their recognition in both public and private spheres, advocating for increased opportunities and equitable representation.
“In conclusion, I earnestly seek your trust, support, and votes in the upcoming council elections. With my academic background, experience serving our chapter, and national involvement, I possess the knowledge, passion, and dedication necessary to effectively represent and advocate for the interests of all NIPR members. Together, let us shape the future of public relations in Nigeria and further elevate the profession’s standing in our society”, he added.
