L-R: Mr Jude Nwauzor, Head Corporate Communications Department, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) handing over a souvenir on behalf of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to Mr Yomi Badejo-Okunsanya, better known as YBO, the Group Managing Director, CMC Connect BCW. YBO is the lead facilitator at this year’s annual NIPR Directors’ Conference holding at Ibom Resort, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State from November 10 -12, 2021.
Ladies and Gentlemen
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the sixth edition off the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Directors’ Conference holding in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The NIPR has remained unwavering in creating and delivering innovative, dynamic, and creative discourse in the communication industry. In an effort to deepen the communication competence is of top management and communication leaders especially in the public relations function, the Institute saw the dire need to create the Directors’ Conference.
Moreover, the initiative became expedient in view of the fact that the public sector’s more conservative responses to issues and dynamic interactive discourse has tended to strain the relationship of the leaders and the led. It has also brought a gap and discordance in the way corporations and governments relate.
As communicators and relationship menders the NIPR believes that communication Directors and those in management position have the potential to play key roles in building peace. Our communicators must as a matter of urgency begin to counsel government on the use of dialogues and nonviolent communication to counter threat narratives. At this critical time in our nation, communication experts must come up with new stories that will help reframe our conversations and reshape the narratives of the current crisis facing us today in various ways.
We must not relent in our efforts to contribute to building a nation where peace and justice reigns. We must produce contents that inspires, that unites, that motivates and finally one that empowers the workforce that we are so blessed with in this country.
Ladies and gentlemen, I want to thank you for the sacrifice you have made to attend this conference and I will assure you that you will get value for your money. I would also like to thank the resource persons who I know would add so much value to this conference. I can assure you that these are award-winning experts who have been tested and proven in the communication industry globally.
On behalf of the President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Mallam Muhktar Sirajo I welcome you once again and thank you for being a part of history. In the next three days we are going to take you through topics and case studies that will deepen and widen your scope in communication. We also believe that all work and no play makes every director and manager dull communicator.
Therefore, we have lined up for you activities to relax you and give you that much needed time to exhale recharge for the task ahead. Our choice of Uyo as venue for this conference is predicated on the need to get away from the hustle and bustle of our cities to a serene and peaceful place with aquatic splendor. Like they greet in Uyo, Dakkada, ami mme dakka nda.
I must not fail to appreciate my indefatigable team for their selflessness and positive drive. You really inspire.
Thank you.
God bless NIPR
God bless Nigeria
Chair, Directors’ Conference Committee
10-12 November 2021
