It never crossed my mind that Nkechi Ali-Balogun had turned 70 when she recently called me over promotional items for one of her professional initiatives. Her voice was as energetic, composed, and intellectually sharp as ever. It was therefore with pleasant shock that I later stumbled on congratulatory messages circulating across platforms of the African Public Relations Association (APRA) announcing that the respected PR icon clocked 70 on May 19, 2026.

For over two decades, I have regarded her as one of the most inspiring personalities and role models in public relations practicenot only in Nigeria but across Africa. Calm, calculated, graceful, yet firm in conviction, she possesses that rare ability to welcome constructive criticism wholeheartedly while remaining deeply committed to professionalism and ethical communication.

One memorable encounter between us further revealed the depth of her character.

In 2023, she expressed reservations over a perception survey conducted by interns of Spokespersons Digest on the campaign flyers of aspirants contesting for the presidency of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations ahead of the Institutes Annual General Meeting scheduled for August 24, 2023.

The survey involved 25 Mass Communication undergraduates undergoing internship training at PRNigeria Centres in Abuja and Kano. The interns were asked to evaluate the campaign materials of the two frontline contenders for the NIPR presidency: Dr. Ike Neliaku and Mrs. Nkechi Ali-Balogun.

The interns generally considered Ali-Baloguns flyers aesthetically appealing because of their simplicity, elegant colour combination, and restrained messaging. However, they also observed that the materials contained limited personal branding information. Her name appeared abbreviated and less prominent, while there were fewer descriptive slogans projecting her personality and professional credentials.

Interestingly, some female respondents interpreted the absence of flamboyant catchphrases as deliberate and strategica subtle departure from the intimidating self-glorification often associated with Nigerian political campaigns.

Yet, the concluding editorial interpretation of the survey did not sit well with her.

When she called me, she argued passionately that the overall framing appeared to demarket her candidacy beyond the objective assessment made by the interns. But what struck me most was not her complaintit was her maturity. Despite her reservations, she commended the young interns for their effort and even expressed willingness to support their aspirations and professional growth.

That singular conversation strengthened our professional relationship.

In fact, in a deliberate effort to prove that I neither influenced nor manipulated the editorial position of the interns, I later wrote a personal opinion article titled NIPR Presidency: Between Nkechi Ali-Balogun and Ike Neliaku, which was published in several national newspapers.

In that article, I described her as the quintessential woman in public relationsa title I still believe fits perfectly.

Over the years, our paths have crossed repeatedly at national and international PR events. One enduring quality about Nkechi Ali-Balogun is her generosity of spirit. She never hesitates to encourage good performance, thoughtful presentations, or innovative ideas. Her commendations are sincere, and her criticisms are usually constructive.

A Fellow of NIPR and a respected senior member of APRA, Ali-Balogun is the Principal Consultant and Chief Executive Officer of NECCI Limited, a Lagos-based public relations consultancy that has remained influential in strategic communication and corporate reputation management.

Before establishing herself fully in consultancy, she built an impressive corporate career, serving as Head of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank and later at Equitorial Trust Bank. Earlier still, she spent five years at the Nigerian Television Authority as a producer, scriptwriter, and consultantan experience that sharpened her media intelligence and storytelling skills. She is currently Chairperson/CEO Public Relations Consultants of Nigeria (PRCAN).

Academically, she remains equally accomplished. She earned a first degree in English/Education and a Masters degree in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos, an MBA in Management from the University of Nigeria, and later obtained a PhD in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos. She also attended the prestigious Frank Jefkins School of Public Relations in London.

Ali-Baloguns professional journey is deeply intertwined with the growth of public relations practice in Nigeria and Africa. With over three decades of experience, she has not only built a flourishing career but has also contributed immensely to institutional development, ethical communication, and professional mentoring.

She made history as the first female Chairperson of the Lagos State Chapter of NIPR, where she demonstrated strategic leadership, organisational discipline, and a passion for professional excellence. Her tenure remains one of the reference points for effective chapter administration within the Institute.

In 2023, she again broke barriers by becoming the first woman ever to contest for the presidency of NIPR. Her candidacy attracted widespread support from notable PR groups and professionals, including women-focused communication networks and industry associations. Her seven-point agenda centred on institutional relevance, gender inclusion, capacity building, and digital transformation within the profession.

Though she did not emerge victorious, her candidacy itself altered the psychology of leadership possibilities within the Institute. She proved that competence, courage, and credibility matter more than entrenched traditions.

Beyond titles and achievements, Ali-Balogun remains passionate about mentoring the next generation. Through the NECCI Public Relations Roundtable and her widely respected platform, Chat with NAB, she continues to shape conversations around leadership, communication ethics, branding, and strategic influence.

Indeed, Nkechi Ali-Balogun deserves the fitting title of an African PR Amazon.

Not merely because she is influential, but because she embodies exceptional courage, resilience, elegance, and intellectual strength in strategic communication. She has consistently spoken truth to power with dignity while building bridges across professional divides. The calibre of personalities that honour her annual engagements reflects the respect she commands across sectors and across borders.

On behalf of the management and staff of Image Merchants Promotion Limitedpublishers of PRNigeria, Economic Confidential, Spokespersons Digest, and Tech Digest, under the chairmanship of respected communication scholar, Sule Yau SuleI celebrate a woman whose life exemplifies professionalism, mentorship, service, and sacrifice for nation-building.

At 70, Nkechi Ali-Balogun remains not only relevant but remarkably inspirational. May her wisdom continue to illuminate the path for generations of communication professionals across Africa.

Yushau A. Shuaib, author of ” Dozen Tips for Media Relation” and “,Award-Winning Crisis Communication Strategies.”
yashuaib

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The excitement surrounding the appointment of the first female spokesperson of the Nigerian Army transcends mere gender advocacy. It marks a well-deserved milestone widely celebrated within the militarys public relations corps and beyond.

I had the privilege of watching the video of the brief but symbolic handing-over ceremony at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, where Lieutenant Colonel Onyechi Appolonia Anele officially assumed duty from her predecessor, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who has been redeployed to the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre.

In her inaugural remarks, Lt. Col. Anele expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for entrusting her with such a critical responsibility. She pledged unwavering loyalty and professionalism, promising to build on her predecessors achievements while strengthening the Armys narrative of honour, service, and sacrifice.

I will continue to justify the confidence reposed in me through dedication, focus, and prompt delivery of our strategic communications, she declared, while also acknowledging the support of defence correspondents, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and other stakeholders in advancing the Armys public image.

Paying tribute to Major General Nwachukwu, she commended his passion and professionalism, noting that his leadership significantly elevated the credibility and effectiveness of the Directorate of Army Public Relations.

In his valedictory remarks, Major General Nwachukwu reflected on notable achievements under his stewardship, including enhanced strategic communications, crisis messaging capabilities, digital media operations, and global media engagement, all of which contributed to an improved public perception and increased international visibility for the Nigerian Army.

I am proud of the professional strides we have made, and I am confident that Lt. Col. Anele will take the Directorate to even greater heights, he said, appreciating the COAS and the Directorates officers’ unwavering support.

The ceremony featured the official signing of handing-over notes, presentation of the command flag, and the decoration of Lt. Col. Anele with the Directorate of Army Public Relations insignia, witnessed by senior military officers, deputy directors, and PR personnel from across Nigeria.

Lt. Col. Aneles appointment comes at a time when the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has sustained its advocacy for appointing certified public relations professionals to spokesperson roles under the Nigerian law.

Under Nigerian law specifically the NIPR Act (Decree No. 16 of 1990, now Cap N114, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004) it is mandatory for anyone appointed as a public relations officer or spokesperson to be a certified member of the NIPR. Practising public relations without NIPR certification is an offence punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both. The NIPR established a Compliance Committee chaired by former Defence Spokesperson Major General Chris Olukolade (Rtd) to enforce compliance.

Therefore, Lt. Col. Aneles appointment as a certified public relations professional and Associate Member of the NIPR, stands not only as a major milestone for gender inclusivity but also as a testament to a renewed commitment to professionalism within the Nigerian Army.

A native of Ehime-Mbano, Imo State, Lt. Col. Anele received her early education in Jos before obtaining a Diploma and Bachelors degree in Mass Communication from the University of Jos. She was commissioned into the Nigerian Army in 2007 after completing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

Her professional development includes extensive local and international training in media operations, crisis information management, peace support operations, and strategic communications. She holds two Masters degrees: one in *Gender, Peace, and Security* from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Ghana, and another in *Leadership and Strategic Studies* from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna.

Her distinguished career spans key command, staff, and instructional roles, including:
– Military Public Information Officer at the United NationsAfrican Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), Sudan; Public Relations Officer to the Chief of Army Staff; Acting Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Army Welfare Holdings Limited by Guarantee and was an officer at the Defence Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Cooperation.

She was a recipient of the Forces Service Star (FSS) and was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 2021. She is happily married.

There are high expectations for Lt. Col. Anele, a thorough professional, to drive a new era of strategic, transparent, and responsive communication for the Nigerian Army.

Drawing from her background in civil-military relations, she is well-positioned to deepen the Armys engagement with civilian populations, enhance public trust, and foster greater openness in military communication. Her experience in stakeholder engagement will be critical in building bridges between the Army and the wider society.

As a certified NIPR member, she is equipped to manage media relations, social media engagement, crisis communication, and proactive public outreach increasingly crucial in todays complex information environment.

Her leadership is expected to introduce reforms that will further strengthen the Armys image and expand its reputation for local and international professionalism.

The appointment of Lieutenant Colonel Onyechi Appolonia Anele as the first female spokesperson of the Nigerian Army is a historic achievement. It represents a beacon of progress not just in gender inclusion but also in Nigeria’s professionalisation and modernisation of military communications.

We must commend the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his courage, foresight, and respect for Nigerian law in making this landmark appointment. His decision sends a strong message of hope and possibility to women in Nigeria and across Africa, potentially inspiring a new generation of female leaders in defence communication and public affairs.

Lt. Col. Aneles appointment is not just a personal triumph but a triumph for professionalism, transparency, inclusivity, and excellence.

Yushau A. Shuaib is the publisher of PRNigeria and Spokespersons Digest. He can be reached via yashuaib@yashuaib.com.

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By Yushau A. Shuaib

When the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) introduced Marine and Blue Economy as a new category in its annual National Spokespersons Awards (NSAwards), few anticipated the overwhelming response it would attract. Yet, the category garnered more entries than any other, reflecting growing interest and competition among major players in the maritime sector.

The NSAwards, instituted by Image Merchants Promotion Limitedpublishers of PRNigeria and Economic Confidentialin partnership with the NIPR, celebrates exceptional communicators and spokespersons across diverse fields. Held during the National Spokespersons Summit, the awards event is a platform for knowledge exchange, professional recognition, and elevating communication standards in Nigeria.

My curiosity about the Blue Economy was first piqued when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu created the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023, appointing former Osun State Governor Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola as its pioneer minister. Like many Nigerians, I initially questioned the relevance of a ministry with a seemingly vague and unfamiliar mandate. That perception changed when the Ministers spokesperson, Mr Ismail Omipidan, reached out to the editorial board ofEconomic Confidentialfor advocacy support in raising awareness about the new ministry’s objectives and potential.

The “Blue” in Blue Economy refers to the oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, and other freshwater bodies that appear blue due to how water reflects and absorbs light. Just as the “Green Economy” promotes sustainability on land through eco-friendly practices in agriculture and forestry, the “Blue Economy” centres on water-based economic activities anchored on environmental stewardship and long-term resource regeneration.

Belgian economist Gunter Pauli popularised the modern concept of the Blue Economy in his 2010 book,The Blue Economy: 10 Years, 100 Innovations, 100 Million Jobs. Pauli introduced a regenerative economic model inspired by natural ecosystems, where outputs from one industry become inputs for another. His vision emphasised zero waste, innovation, and job creation in ocean-based sectors.

Before Paulis articulation, similar ideas existed under terms like “marine economy” or “ocean economy.” However, after the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio, sustainability in ocean governance gained formal attention, even if the term Blue Economy had not yet entered the mainstream.

In acknowledging the sector’s potential, President Tinubu has tasked one of Nigerias leading policy institutions with developing a national strategy for the Blue Economy. As a proud member of the NIPR (mnipr), I observed that, unlike the finance and oil and gas sectors, communication professionals have yet to fully embrace or amplify the Blue Economys narratives in Nigeria.

In its most basic definition, the Blue Economy involves the sustainable use of oceanic and aquatic resources to drive economic growth, improve livelihoods, and preserve marine ecosystems for future generations. While public awareness remains limited, a growing body of literature and expert analysis affirms that Nigeria stands to benefit immensely from this model.

Its expansive scope includes fisheries, maritime transport, offshore oil and gas, marine biotechnology, coastal tourism, and renewable ocean energy. Yet, Nigerias current performance across these sectors remains under-documented, underscoring the need for structured communication and policy clarity.

Globally, several countries offer compelling models. Norway leads in aquaculture innovation. Kenya exemplifies strong inter-agency coordination. Seychelles excels in conservation financing. Mauritius and India have adopted smart port technologies, while Senegal demonstrates best practices in grassroots fisheries governance. Locally, the Lekki Deep Sea Port stands out as a promising infrastructure that aligns with Blue Economy aspirations.

Despite these prospects, the sector faces significant challenges: overfishing, inadequate funding, maritime insecurity, institutional overlap, and weak policy enforcement. These issues require a national communications strategy that can bridge knowledge gaps, attract investment, and mobilise public and private sector participation.

Agencies under the Ministrysuch as the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the Nigerian Shippers Councilmust activate their public relations departments for proactive, sustained campaigns that highlight their mandates, impact, and strategic relevance. Additionally, critical stakeholders, including the Nigerian Navy and international partners, should support outreach efforts that generate grassroots buy-in and foster trust in policy.

The success of Nigerias Blue Economy will depend not only on sound policy, data-driven planning, and infrastructure investment but also on robust public communication. Without effective messaging, even the most innovative frameworks risk being misunderstood or underutilized.

This is where the NIPR can play a pivotal role. As Nigerias statutory body for public relations, the Institute is well-positioned to lead strategic communication efforts through public enlightenment, stakeholder engagement, professional capacity-building, and international collaboration.

Multilingual awareness campaigns can demystify the Blue Economy and educate citizensespecially in coastal communitieson its benefits. Policy advocacy can be amplified through partnerships with government institutions and the private sector, while town halls and community dialogues can increase local ownership and participation.

Media training, exposure visits, and the promotion of success stories in marine tourism, aquaculture, and renewable energy will inspire confidence and attract investors and development partners.

The NIPR can help reposition the Blue Economy as a cornerstone of Nigerias sustainable development agenda by championing these communication initiatives. These efforts could elevate Nigerias profile as a regional leader in maritime policy, innovation, and environmental sustainability if well-executed.

Yushau A. Shuaibis the author of“Award-Winning Crisis Communication Strategies”and“A Dozen Tips for Media Relations.”He can be reached via:yashuaib@yashuaib.com

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My father died a while ago! Janaza will be at Sultan Bello Mosque Kaduna after Jumuat prayer Insha Allah

This was the sombre message that greeted me on my phone from Sadiq Kabir Dangogo, son of the legendary Mallam Kabir Dangogo, as I awoke for the Ramadan Sahur at 4:00 AM on Friday, March 7, 2025. For a moment, I was paralyzed by disbelief. I pinched myself to ensure it wasnt a nightmare and sought further confirmation. The reality soon sank in: the man who had inspired countless African public relations professionals was no more.

Mallam Kabir Dangogo was not just a name in the field of public relations; he was an institution. His contributions to the profession were monumental, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of PR practitioners.

My first encounter with Mallam Dangogo was through his writings during my early years in PR. However, it was an unforgettable honor to share a podium with him when we were both recognized as PR Personalities of the Year by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Kano/Jigawa Chapter exactly 30 years ago. The event, held on August 5, 1995, at Daula Hotel in Kano, was graced by dignitaries such as the NIPR President, Alhaji Sabo Muhammad; former Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Ali Saad Birnin Kudu; and my boss Alhaji Abu Gidado, then Minister of State for Finance, who was the Special Guest of Honour.

That moment marked the beginning of a mentorship and professional relationship that profoundly shaped my career. Mallam Dangogos towering presence in strategic communication opened doors to numerous opportunities and networks. His establishment of Timex Communications and Training School after his retirement further cemented his commitment to nurturing the next generation of PR professionals.

As a revered authority in financial public relations and reputation management, Mallam Dangogos expertise transcended borders. On February 21, 2019, we had the privilege of hosting him at the PRNigeria Centre in Abuja for a mentorship session with our interns, mostly Mass Communication students. Unbeknownst to him, we had orchestrated a surprise 70th birthday celebration in his honor.

At exactly 4:00 PM, as I led him into our conference room, the staff and interns erupted into a melodious rendition of Happy Birthday. The look of surprise on his face was priceless. The celebration deepened as calls began pouring in from top PR practitioners across the continent. The first was from the President of the African Public Relations Association (APRA), Mr. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, followed by the President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Mr. Mukhtar Sirajo, and many others, all extending heartfelt wishes.

In his remarks that day, Mallam Dangogo admitted that he had long forgotten his birthday, which he rarely commemorated. With a sense of nostalgia, he reflected on the golden days of public relations, when decorum, ethics, and professionalism were the guiding principles of the profession. He lamented the current state of PR in Nigeria, emphasizing that the profession was not merely about crafting grammatically impeccable press releases or delivering eloquent speeches at press conferences. He urged young practitioners to be hardworking, diligent, and steadfast in upholding the ethics of the profession.

Born on February 21, 1949, Mallam Kabir Dangogo was a scholar and a trailblazer. He earned academic degrees from Ohio University, Athens, in the United States in 1981, and the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom in 1987. Mallam Dangogos illustrious career began in journalism, where he worked at the New Nigerian newspaper and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). He actually served as the Managing Editor of New Nigerian newspaper between 1988 and 1989, a Senior Lecturer at Kaduna Polytechnic in the late 1980s, and the Press Adviser for the United States Information Service in 1990.

He later transitioned into public relations, serving as a Public Relations Officer at the Bank of the North Limited and Union Bank of Nigeria Plc. He was the founding President of the Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB). He served as Secretary-General of the Federation of African Public Relations Associations (FAPRA later known as APRA) while also being the Chairman of the Nigeria Chapter of the International Public Relations Associations (IPRA) between 2002 and 2006, bringing pride to Nigeria on the continental and global stage.

After 32 years of distinguished service in various corporate organizations, Mallam Dangogo voluntarily retired from Union Bank on June 26, 2005, as the Assistant General Manager (AGM) of Corporate Affairs. He then established Timex Communications, a PR firm and communication training school that hosted global events in Nigeria.

His contributions to the profession were recognized globally. In 1981, he was elected a Fellow of the International Radio and Television Society (IRTS) in New York. He became a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in 2000 and received the NIPR Presidents Award for Excellence in Public Relations in 1996. He was also a Fellow of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) and received the Lagos State Chapter of the NIPR Award for Excellence in Public Relations in 2005.

Mallam Kabir Dangogo was a multi-award-winning PR practitioner whose decades of distinguished practice left an indelible mark on the communications landscape and the banking industry. His remarkable journey is a testament to his exceptional leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

As we bid farewell to this doyen of public relations in Africa, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure. May his soul rest in peace.

Yushau A. Shuaib is the author of “A Dozen Tips for Media Relations” and “Introduction to Financial Public Relations in Nigeria.” yashuaib@yashuaib.com

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On June 13, 2024, an email from Janice Hills of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) announced a Campaign, “100 Days of Impactful PR at Customs Service, as a Finalist for the 2024 Golden World Award (GWA) in public Relations.

As a finalist, the campaign will now proceed to the second round, where more materials, including documents, relevant web links, images, and videos, will be submitted to enable the jury from various countries to decide on the winning entries.

The campaign, a testament to the strategic leadership of the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, was previously honoured with a Certificate of Excellence at the 2024 SABRE African PR, a prestigious recognition at the annual conference of the African Public Relations Association (APRA) in Cote d’Ivoire.

The campaign recognised the strategic deployment of public relations (PR) tactics by Adeniyi, in 100 days of acting as Comptroller General, to raise awareness about the New Customs Act and the Reform Agenda within the sector – a testament to his visionary leadership and innovative approach.

Upon assuming the role of acting Comptroller General on June 19, 2023, Adeniyi was presented with a unique opportunity. The immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari had, a week before his handover to President Tinubu, assented to the Nigeria Customs Act, amending it for the first time in over 64 years. This presented a key opening for Adeniyi to use the campaign to raise awareness about the transformative import, value, expenditure, and accountability changes promised by the new Act and the stricter penalties and sanctions for Excise duty violations.

The Act specifies that appointment of the Comptroller General of the service would no longer be open to non-career individuals, as it empowers the President to appoint a CGC from career-serving officers, provided they hold a rank not lower than that of an Assistant Comptroller General (ACG).

As a distinguished Fellow and former Vice President of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Adeniyi played a pivotal role in fostering stakeholder collaboration. His efforts were instrumental in aligning the NCS’s core responsibilities with President Tinubus priorities in trade facilitation, revenue collection, societal protection, and cooperation. This demonstrates the NCS’s unwavering commitment to national goals.

In just three months of his acting capacity, Adeniyi had intensified awareness campaigns through capacity-building programmes, stakeholder engagements, and media interactions. One of the other major challenges he faced on assumption of office was managing the trade embargo between ECOWAS states and Niger Republic due to a coup. Despite the public outcry over border closures affecting businesspeople and border communities, Adeniyi’s crisis communication strategies involved consultations with community leaders, youth groups, and business stakeholders towards providing relief, alternatives and legitimate options.

His leadership and managerial skills through strategic communication enhanced stakeholder collaboration ensured border security, influenced the citizenry’s compliance with customs reforms, significantly boosted revenue generation and instilled a sense of optimism and hope for the future. It also considerably contributed to the productivity of his management team. Impressed by the unparalleled feat and strategy deployed, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the confirmation of Adeniyis appointment as substantive Comptroller General from October 19, 2024.

Interestingly, Kabir Abdulsalam of PRNigeria and Maryam NaAllah of Spokespersons Digest, both staff writers at Image Merchants Promotion Limited, studied and documented Adeniyi’s public relations strategies in their forthcoming book titled “Impactful PR in Customs Management.”

With a blurb by Vice President Kashim Shettima and a foreword written by the President of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, the book highlights well-coordinated PR approaches in leadership and management.

Key aspects covered in the literature include how press coverage and media engagement created required awareness and sensitisation of customs reforms. Similarly, the effect of regular engagement with stakeholders in facilitating interagency collaboration and earning public support is also highlighted. Organised special events through lively interactions and fruitful deliberations have been valuable in promoting the new legislation and other service efforts.

The book emphasises other strategies for engagement and communication during crises and recognises the effectiveness of third-party narratives. It further focuses on primary PR tools in its twelve chapters, such as media relations, event management, crisis communication, stakeholder engagement, press release writing, social media, lobbying decision-makers, corporate social responsibility (CSR), reputation management, in-house publications, employee relations, and media monitoring.

In less than a year in office, through his trade facilitation measures, including 24-hour port decongestion/clearance and removal of multiple checkpoints with dedicated import and export terminals, the Customs Service under Adeniyi has achieved an unprecedented revenue collection of 75%, compared to the previous year.

A humble and detribalised Nigerian, Adeniyi has demonstrated inspirational leadership that motivates staff across all levels and backgrounds to strive for excellence and make sacrifices in the nation’s service. His selfless approach has created a culture of unity and dedication, inspiring others to work towards a common goal of serving the national interest.

His anti-smuggling campaign efforts, through strengthening collaborations, have also led to massive seizures of wildlife products, deadly weapons, and hard drugs, among other contrabands that are injurious to the economy and life of the people.

Adeniyi’s groundbreaking communication approach and proactive strategies have significantly influenced public perception and showcased the tangible benefits of effective PR strategies for excellence. His visionary leadership has transformed the Customs Service, restored trust and elevated its reputation. His exemplary model of effective PR at the management level has the potential to inspire future leaders to harness the power of strategic communication, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.

The accomplishments of the customs service under Tinubus administration are quite obvious, as the book will be unveiled at the forthcoming annual Economic Confidential Summit in Abuja next month.

Yushau A. Shuaib
Author Award Winning Crisis Communication Strategies
www.YAShuaib.com, yashuaib@yashuaib.com

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To some extent, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) play strategic roles in ensuring that the public is adequately informed about the efforts and accomplishments of the security services, especially ongoing military operations.

Behind the scenes, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, facilitates inter-agency collaboration and harmonious relationships among the different security organisations to achieve peace and stability in the country. He recently directed the reactivation of the Forum of Spokespersons of Security and Response Agencies (FOSSRA), which was established during the tenure of President Goodluck Jonathan, before later being jettisoned during the eight years in office of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Similarly, as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa has also demonstrated leadership qualities in ensuring that the service chiefs speak with one voice towards the highest attainment of national security and operational competence of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, comprising the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Meanwhile, no matter how transparent and responsible an organisation is, public criticism or negative media coverage could sometimes be inevitable even despite the best intentions due to inadequate public access to information about it or mischief makers’ wilful manipulation of information concerning it. Likewise, avoidable controversies could occur due to the management’s nonchalant attitude, inactions and/or needless decision-making.

With remarkable accomplishments in its areas of operation, the Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, is grossly misunderstood by the public, going by a series of attacks that it has been subjected to recently in the Nigerian media.

Ogalla is an outstanding military officer who emerged as the best graduating science student (boy) at the Nigerian Military School, Zaria 1987. He attained a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Mathematics and was awarded the Sword of Honour as the best Naval cadet in his course. He later obtained a Master of Science (MSc) degree in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan.

Following his commission as a second lieutenant in 1992, he rose rapidly to the rank of Rear Admiral in September 2021 before being elevated to his current position.

When he was appointed as the Chief of Naval Staff by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, there was a controversy over an allegation that the former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, had refused to hand over to him as his successor. Ogalla had to instruct the Naval spokesperson, Rear Admiral AO Ayo-Vaughan, to debunk the reports by explaining to the public the traditional procedure for handing over the mantle of military leadership.

Besides taking part in several military operations, including the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in Liberia, Ogalla successfully coordinated several anti-illegal oil bunkering operations, leading to a remarkable reduction in illicit activities on our national and international waterways, especially in the Niger Delta. That experience probably influenced his reluctance as the naval chief to engage private security firms for military operations against oil thieves in the region.

It was therefore not surprising that Tantita Security Services Limited, owned by ex-Niger Delta militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, a.k.a Tompolo, had to engage the Nigerian Navy in a tug-of-war while seeking to preserve its lucrative security contract for the protection of Nigerias resource-bearing waterways.

The no-love-lost relationship compelled Tantita to accuse the Navy of harbouring bad eggs within it that were sabotaging the fight against the menace of crude oil theft in the Niger Delta. The Navy accused Tantita Security of being involved in illegalities concerning a crude oil vessel seized in the coastal waters.

However, a few months later, another controversy broke out when the Peoples Gazette, an online news platform, alleged that the Naval Chief had facilitated an unorganised bunkering of Nigerian crude and was involved in a multimillion-naira contract-splitting fraud. The Peoples Gazette also accused Ogalla of releasing several oil tankers that had been impounded for transporting stolen crude oil off Nigerian shores after receiving kickbacks in millions of dollars.

Could the allegations be true going within the purview of Vice Admiral Ogallas past sterling records as the Commandant at the Nigerian Navy Hydrographic School (NNHS) and Nigerian Navy Hydrographic Office (NNHO), where he enabled cost-effective procurements of several kits and tools from reputable Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), leading to improvements in practical training of the institutions, while also being instrumental in the localisation of many of the Naval tools of operations?

It was, therefore, surprising that less than 24 hours after the media report, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, responded that the allegations against Ogalla would be investigated immediately, stressing that President Bola Tinubu had zero tolerance for corruption in the public service.

Rather than get distracted by the allegations, the Nigerian Navy under Ogalla has kept on sustaining, with renewed efforts, its Operation Delta Sanity, which aims at combating crude oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, and other sundry crimes within the nations maritime environment.

Apart from intercepting more vessels with stolen crude oil and materials meant for the construction of illegal refineries, the Navy has also arrested scores of suspects involved in bunkering and handed them over to the appropriate authorities.

While the controversies remain unabated, the success stories of naval operations are equally being reported accordingly.

Meanwhile, there is a feeler that the Chief of Naval Staff may be in the eyes of the storm over his alleged plan to appoint a new naval spokesperson in contravention of Nigerian law. The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), a statutory body, has reiterated its stance against appointing unlicensed and unregistered professionals as spokespersons, especially for the countrys security services.

Almost all the security and intelligence services have complied with the law by appointing certified PR professionals as their spokespersons, including the Defence Headquarters, the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Airforce, the Police, the Department of State Services, the Customs, the Immigration, the NDLEA, EFCC, ICPC, FRSC and even NEMA. Why should the Nigerian Navy be different?

For fear that some chief executive officers may not be aware of the law, the NIPR President, Dr Ike Neliaku and Chairman of its Enforcement and Compliance Committee retired Major General Chris Olukolade, jointly signed a memo addressed to the service chiefs cautioning against contravention of the Law on Appointment of Public Relations Practitioners and Allied Positions in Government Establishments.

In the memo, top government officials, especially in the security services, were reminded of the provisions of the NIPR Practitioners Act of 1990, now Cap N114 Laws of the Federation 2004, which states that any person who is not a member of the Institute practices or holds himself out to practice as a public relations practitioner for or in expectation of reward, or takes or uses any name, title, addition or description implying that he is in practice as a public relations practitioner, he shall be guilty of an offence.

Section 19 (4) of the Act states that A person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable to a fine, imprisonment or both. In addition, Section 19 (5) states that Where an offence under this section which a body corporate has committed is proved to have been committed with the consent or connivance of or to be attributable to any neglect on the part of any director (CEO), manager, secretary or other similar officers of the body corporate or any person purporting to act in any such capacity, he, as well as the body corporate, shall be deemed to be guilty of that offence and shall be liable to be prosecuted and punished accordingly.

Concerned about the statutory provision that criminalises the appointment of uncertified PR officers as spokespersons, the Information Minister, Mr Mohammed Idris Malagi, recently charged the NIPR Council to give effect to the Federal Governments resolve to enforce the law regulating the practice of Public Relations in Nigeria.
Being a member of the Nigerian Hydrographic Society, the Nigerian Institute of Management, the International Earth Rotation Services and a fellow of the Occupational Safety and Health Association, Vice Admiral Ogalla should realise that beyond networking, professional bodies provide ethical standards and guidance that deserve to be complied with for occupational integrity.

We hope that critical institutions will comply with the laws of the federation, particularly regarding the appointment of their spokespersons. It will be deplorable if they operate in contravention of the law by daring the NIPR to act by summoning those in violation before the special tribunal established by the Act for ultimate prosecution for misconduct.

It is essential for individuals and organisations to always strive to protect their reputation as responsible, law-abiding citizens without engaging in needless controversies.

Yushau A. Shuaib is the Author of Award-Winning Crisis Communication Strategies
www.YAShuaib.com, yashuaib@yahoo.com

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By Yushau A. Shuaib

The 2023 Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has cleared 29 candidates vying for the seats of 18 Governing Council members of the institution.

The election will be held at NIPRs Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference, with the theme, “Leadership, Public Relations and Value Creation,” in Abuja, today August 24, 2023.

The Chairman and Secretary of the electoral committee, Chief Casca Ogosu and Mr. Uzoma Onyegbadue told the Spokespersons Digest, a sister publication of PRNigeria that among the 29-list candidates, 18 of them have achieved the esteemed status of being Fellows of the Institute, with an additional nine candidates entering the fray as Members, while one person is an Associate Member.

According to the NIPR Act, after voting, the elected Governing Council members will form an Electoral College to further elect the President and Vice President of the association, who would double as Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Governing Council of NIPR for a tenure of two years each.

The major contenders for the presidency of the institute are two Fellows, Mrs. Nkechi Ali-Balogun, of the Lagos Chapter, and Dr. Ike Neliaku of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter.

While I am reluctant to get involved in the typical politicking around the candidates, I must say that the two major gladiators are exceptional PR professionals whose professionalism, competence, capability, and performance on the job I can vouch for.

I have known Dr. Ike Neliaku since 1994 when I was deployed to the Federal Ministry of Information as a staff, after winning the 1993 Presidential National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) award, which came with automatic employment in the Federal Civil Service.

Neliaku, who had previously won the same award in 1991, was then the Personal Assistant to the Minister of Information, who not only guided me through the rudiments of work in the civil service but equally gave me unforgettable moral and kind support to ease into the new work environment.

I recall vividly how he had strongly urged me to sustain my regular article writings, which were being recognised for awards and honours at that time. In fact, he was delighted with some of the books I wrote subsequently whose endorsements he facilitated with the Minister, while also helping secure written Forewords by Ministers. He has also been a guest at our events, including the Annual Spokespersons Communication Awards (SCA) and book presentations. The more recent instance was during the book I unveiled in honour of the most charismatic minister in the immediate past administration, Professor Ali Isa Pantami.

On the other hand, while I know Mrs Nkechi Ali Balogun as the quintessential Woman in PR, going by her activities and accomplishments as Chairperson of the Lagos chapter of NIPR in the past, our paths have equally crossed on several occasions at national and international PR events. She always has kind words of appreciation for encouraging efforts, presentations and performances at such occasions.

I can attest to the fact that both Neliaku and Ali-Balogun are highly creative, result-oriented, widely networked and well-grounded, yet they are distinct personalities with peculiar strengths and senses of purpose.

A Fellow of NIPR, and a Senior Member of the African Public Relations Association (APPRA), Mrs Nkechi Ali-Balogun is the Principal Consultant/CEO of NECCI Limited, a PR firm based in Lagos. She had previously worked as Head of Corporate Affairs at prominent banks, NEXIM and Equitorial Trust Bank.

She holds a first degree in English/Education and a Masters degree in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos. She also obtained an MBA in Management from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

On his part, Neliaku attended the University of Jos, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts in 1989 and thereafter a Masters degree in Political Economy, and a PhD in Development Studies, both from the University of Abuja. Having served as Special Assistant to the Ministers of Information, as well as that of Cooperation and Africa Integration, he was later appointed as Senior Special Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria between 2010 and 2015. He is currently the Executive Vice Chairman, of Rightangle PR and Executive Secretary/Member of the Governing Board of the Nigerian Prize for Leadership.

While NIPR members, mostly from the Lagos axis, testify to the fact that Nkechis track record is steeped in competence, unwavering ethical values, and proven leadership ability, the PR professionals in the Abuja axis have described Neliaku as emotionally intelligent, relationship-driven, skilful in managing different interests and tested in managing power and public assets.

The two candidates have both unveiled their different agendas ahead of the election. While Nkechi unveiled a 7-point Agenda, Neliakus promises for taking the NIPR to great heights are anchored on a 9-point Agenda.

In a statement titled, Lets Make History Together, Nkechi outlines her vision for the institute, as she listed her agenda to include: Caderisation by strengthening professional cadres to ensure excellence at all levels; organisational renewal, by breathing new life into our institute; a befitting secretariat by providing NIPR with the infrastructure it deserves and increased revenue generation by sustaining and expanding initiatives.

Other pledges she is making to members comprise: Digitization by embracing technology for efficiency and reach; Improving Chapter Capacity and Collaboration and Global Recognition and Affiliations.

Similarly, in his agenda, Neliaku promises to work towards the establishment of the first African Public Relations University in Nigeria, having conducted project feasibility and viability studies for the NIPR-owned PR university with the support of the Education Advisory Board, as a finishing school for PR practitioners.

He listed his agenda as follows: Reposition the National Secretariat for effective administration; enhance membership value and professional development, Ensure digitalisation of the institutes operations and elevate the institutes national recognition; empower state chapters for greater viability and sustainability.

More so Neliaku seeks to: ensure regulatory compliances and strengthen the rank and status of NIPR Fellows; special projects for sustainable revenue generation; initiate the development of Nigerian Reputation House in Abuja and facilitating the establishment of Africas First Public Relations University in Nigeria.

Both candidates have been assuring their colleagues that they have the reputation to deliver on their campaign promises of making NIPR a beacon of professionalism and excellence.

While I wish my sister, Nkechi Ali-Balogun, and my brother, Ike Neliaku, the very best in todays AGM and election, I urge them to see the election as a contest among siblings and not war, as this will sustain and improve the relationship not only among them but also among all the members of the perception and reputation management profession.

Yushau A. Shuaib. Author of “A Dozen Tips for Media,” “Writings for the Media,” “Financial Public Relations” and “Award-Winning Crisis Communication Strategies”
www.YAShuaib.com, yashuaib@yahoo.com

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General John Enenche

General Enenche: An Engineer in PR Turf?
By Yushau A. Shuaib

The founding fathers of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) fought for the enactment of Decree No. 16 of 1990 (now an Act of the National Assembly) to regulate and monitor conformity to the ethical standards of Public Relations (PR) practice in Nigeria.

The law bars non-members from practicing public communication in the country. The regulation also empowers the Institute to prosecute offenders. They feared then, that the profession was being infiltrated by all-comers who knew little or nothing about the PR practice.

Today, their fears have been confirmed as the PR profession in Nigeria is saturated by quacks apart from the ill-equipped, unqualified and inexperience persons assigned to handle public relations jobs.

There is a need for sanity in the profession because PR strives on sustaining mutual relationship through reputation management, crisis communication, media relations among other strategies in projecting positive image of individuals and organisations. It therefore requires qualifications, skills and experiences to practice.

While the existing law empowers the Institute to sanction and prohibit non-registered members from public relations practice, NIPR is weak in enforcing compliance. Other professional bodies have aggressively advocated and ensured only qualified members hold top positions in credible institutions in the public and private sectors. It is impossible and would sound absurd to appoint non-professionals who lack requisite qualifications and experiences in Medicine, Law, Accountancy and Engineering among others to head respective departments in reputable organisations. The professional bodies ensure that only their qualified members, such as lawyers, Doctors, Accountants and Engineers oversee such offices.

It is rather disturbing the recent appointment of an Engineer, Major General John Enenche as the Director of Defence Information (DDI) which invariably makes him the spokesperson for the entire military sector in Nigeria that include the Army, Airforce, Navy and intelligence agencies.

A qualified Engineer with Advance Diploma in Military Engineering, Enenche attended Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME), Makurdi for various engineering courses and qualifications while his areas of Interest is Civil Engineering Project Supervision. Though his hobbies include listening to gospel music and monitoring news and current affairs, General Enenche does not have the mandatory requirement to practice Public Relations in Nigeria.

Undoubtedly, General Enenche, from his profile, is a man who has received several prestigious honours and commendation awards in the military. We have no reason to fault this humble and hardworking officer for accepting military posting. The Defence Headquarters should nevertheless know that by Nigerian law it is an aberration to assign non-qualified and non-registered professional to practice public relations in Nigeria.

At a Regional Media Seminar organised by the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) for security spokespersons in July 2016 in Rivers State, the former Director Defence Information, retired Major General Chris Olukolade said that “It is illegal to practice Public Relations in Nigeria without certification.”

General Olukolade, a Fellow of NIPR and Chairman of Enforcement Committee of the Institute added that the Institute was undertaking membership certification and re-certification to weed out quackery in the profession. He therefore enjoined all Security agencies to comply with the law.

The recent appointment of an Army Engineer for a PR job is therefore clearly a deviation from established norms and practices by the military. PR practice should not be undermined by portraying it as a profession that doesn’t require any qualification or skills. It was in recognition of importance of capacity building and promotion of professionalism that the military established Nigerian Army School of Public Relations, and Information (Naspri). Some of those that passed through the training centre including their tutors are some of the highly qualified, competent and finest serving military officers, among them ‘Generals’ in rank and grounded in public relations practice.

As a regulatory body for image makers and reputation managers, NIPR has a lot to do in its advocacy and engagement with respective institutions to abide by the law guiding appointments into top positions in PR and Communication jobs in Nigeria. It should also emulate other bodies that jealously guard the integrity of their members and proudly protect the dignity of their professions.

The NIPR should therefore use its powers appropriately in sanctioning individuals or organisations that abuse the regulations as regards appointment, promotion, discipline and other sundry requirement of public communication.

Yushau A. Shuaib
yashuaib@yahoo.com
www.YAShuaib.com

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