The State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has laid the foundation for the Cross River Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (CR-NIPR), Reputation House, pledging his administration's full support to the actualization of the project and the Institute.
This move by Governor Otu who is now a Patron of the professional body underscores his commitment to promoting ethical leadership and reputation management in the State.
Speaking shortly before performing the foundation laying ceremony at the Institute's site along Cultural Center Road, Calabar, the Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, stated that, "Today, we lay the foundation for the NIPR Reputation House in Cross River State, a testament to our collective commitment to promoting excellence in reputation management.
"As a government, we recognize the importance of perception and relationships in governance. We are committed to working with professionals like NIPR to drive our agenda and build a strong reputation for Cross River State."
"I commend NIPR for their tireless efforts in promoting professionalism and excellence in reputation management. Your work is crucial to our development, and I assure you of my administration's continued support," he added.
In his key note address, the National President, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Ike Neliaku, lauded Cross River State Chapter for embarking on what he described as an ambitious project; which according to him, takes courage to build. "We're handling a similar project at the headquarters, so I know it's not easy given the current reality."
"My happiness stems from knowing you have passed the critical land acquisition stage, and at a prime location. I am confident that the good Lord who made this provision will provide the needed resources to complete this initiative in record time.
"I will advise building the reputation house with an enterprise mindset, utilizing it fully for chapter activities, and including a rentable hall to generate revenue while also ensuring an eco-balance in construction, reflecting our status as a living organization that needs nature."
"We are standardizing our houses across the country, and now all NIPR houses are called Reputation Houses – a symbol of our focus on reputation building."
While thanking Governor Bassey Otu, for his unparalleled support to the Institute, the President congratulated the Chapter and urged them to continue uniting to build a strong chapter they will always be proud of.
Earlier, the NIPR Vice President, Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, commended Cross River Chapter on the feat recorded.
According to him, "Cross River State Chapter is one of the most vibrant, with successive leadership hosting national events and exhibiting exemplary leadership. "Your model of leadership is worth emulating," he said.
He thanked the council members who traveled far and near to witness the investiture of Governor Otu as a Patron of the Institute and the groundbreaking ceremony of the Cross River State Chapter, Reputation House, saying, "you've been pillars of success under Dr. Ike Neliaku's leadership, now one of the most effective Institutes globally.
In his welcome address, the Chapter Chairman, Dr Augustine Mboso, disclosed that the NIPR Reputation House is more than just a physical structure; it represents a commitment to professionalism, innovation, and best practices in public relations. It will serve as a hub for capacity building, research, and thought leadership, empowering members to drive reputation management excellence in Cross River State and beyond.
"I express my heartfelt gratitude to Governor Bassey Otu for his unwavering support and vision for this project. Your leadership, Sir, has been instrumental in bringing us to this milestone. We are proud to have you as our Patron, and we pledge to continue working tirelessly to promote reputation management excellence in your administration."
"As we break ground on this project, we commit to delivering a world-class facility that will inspire and empower our members. We look forward to continued collaboration with the government and stakeholders to ensure the success of this project," Mboso added.
Nakanda Iyadim
