This is even as the NIPR also noted that some people were masquerading as practitioners without licences.
While the institute said that the grace time is running out, it added that the deadline for compliance and enforcement is January 1, 2024.
Addressing 327 newly-inducted members of the institute, a figure quoted to be one of the highest in its recent history, at an event on Saturday in Abuja, President of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, noted that the profession of public relations is fast taking centre stage in nation-building.
Neliaku urged the new members to contribute in helping to reshape the country’s reputation.
He noted, “Effective January, enforcement and compliance committee headed by Gen. Chris Olukolade (retd.) will launch a clampdown on quacks that are dragging the institution to a state of disrepute.
“The inductees comprise 250 regulars with Mass Communication and Journalism backgrounds, while 77 joined the induction after days of intensive training referred to as a master class.
“Public relations is fast taking centre stage in nation-building. New members should contribute to helping to reshape the country’s reputation.
“The reality is that when reputation is in tatters, a nation can only be in shambles. I must make it clear that it is only the public relations that is fully equipped with the appropriate body of knowledge to properly manage the reputation of Nigeria.
“However, we recognise the need to work in partnership with government and private sectors to reshape the reputation of Nigeria.”
Speaking further, the NIPR president said the institute is determined to build a sustainable and globally competitive reputation for Nigeria.
He noted that the recent establishment of Nigeria Reputation Management Group, headed by Comptroller-General, Nigeria Customs Service, Wale Adeniyi, was one of the measures towards improving the nation’s reputation.
He said, “The institute is collaborating with the government to pursue the ‘Rebirth’ Nigeria programme; an acronym for reinvent, essence, beauty, integrity, resourcefulness, tradition, and heritage.”
Neliaku called on all patriotic Nigerians to “join forces with the institute to carry out the assignment he described as important.”
