The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has issued a deadline of April 1, 2024 as the commencement date for a crackdown on quacks who have infiltrated the public relations profession.
The institute said this in a statement issued by its Director of Public Relations, Stanley Ogadigo in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
According to Ogadigo, the decision was taken by the governing council of the NIPR at its 106th meeting.
He said Jan. 1 to March 31 had been given as a period of grace for public enlightenment and awareness before the full crackdown on April 1.
“We arrived at the new date following interventions from various stakeholders across the country.
“The grace period is for those already appointed as public relations officers (PROs) in various places to see it as an opportunity to conclude their membership with us.
“From April 1, 2024, no organisation, whether government or private, will be allowed to use unqualified persons (none members of NIPR), as PRO.
“We want to enforce strict compliance of professionalism and excellence in public relations practice in Nigeria.
He, therefore, urged individuals, organisations and employers of public relations officers or managers willing to register with the institute or make enquiries to contact them on 0701 038 3277 or info@nipr.org.ng.
Ogadigo said the NIPR Act Compliance and Enforcement Committee headed by Retired Gen. Chris Olukolade and the state chapter chairmen were working assiduously to ensure strict compliance to the institute’s directive. (NAN)
