The Cross River State Government has commended the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) for its outstanding contributions to professionalism in public communication, media practice, and reputation management across Nigeria.
The commendation was conveyed by the State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, in a goodwill message during the ongoing 2025 NIPR Week, which began on May 19 in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State.
Themed “Beyond Headlines: Harnessing Public Relations for Economic Renaissance,” the weeklong event attracted over 1,000 participants from across the country, affirming the institute’s role in shaping national discourse and repositioning Nigeria’s image both locally and internationally.
Dr. Ekpang praised the institute’s enduring commitment to promoting truth, professionalism, and ethical communication, urging PR practitioners to remain at the forefront of crafting narratives that elevate Nigeria’s reputation.
“The role of trained PR professionals is indispensable in shaping perception and driving constructive discourse about our nation. We must take charge of our national image rather than leaving it to unqualified voices,” Ekpang said.
He further hailed the National President of the NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, for his visionary and patriotic leadership, which has advanced the institute’s visibility and strengthened its impact on national development.
Reaffirming Cross River State’s strong relationship with the NIPR, Ekpang revealed that Governor Bassey Otu recently approved the allocation of a choice parcel of land in Calabar for the construction of the NIPR Secretariat. This, he said, reflects the administration’s unwavering support for the growth of the public relations profession.
Describing the Otu-led administration as media- and PR-friendly, Dr. Ekpang noted that the state government will continue to leverage strategic public relations as a tool for effective governance, transparency, and citizen engagement.
On behalf of the Government and people of Cross River State, he wished the NIPR and all participants a fruitful and impactful 2025 NIPR Week in Uyo, South-South Nigeria.
