The Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), FCT Chapter, has reiterated the importance of ethical journalism and reputation management in fostering national development.

Speaking yesterday in Abuja during the Reputation Roundtable on “Navigating Reputation Challenges in the Digital Era,”

the CEO of Development Specs Academy, Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, stressed the need for individuals and organisations to cultivate credible public images, particularly in today’s digital era, where information spreads rapidly.

“You cannot invent a reputation. Your reputation derives from who you are known to be—your actions, how you treat people, how you behave in public, and the things you show interest in,“ he said.

He emphasised that effective reputation management must be based on truth rather than deception or aggressive rebuttals.

“If you are going to employ a reputation management professional or organisation, you must know that their job is not to tell lies about you or attack everyone who says something unpleasant. Instead, they should present an image that can be defended with facts.”

The conference, organised by the NIPR FCT Chapter, aims to equip public relations professionals with the necessary skills to navigate the evolving media landscape. Prof. Ikechukwu warned that in today’s digital age, a single misleading post could damage an individual’s or organisation‘s reputation within seconds.

Also, veteran broadcast journalist Moji Makanjuola urged the media to take a more constructive role in nation-building rather than amplifying negative narratives.

“The responsibility falls on us when it comes to managing reputations. Too often, we forget that we are part of the society we report on. Instead of accelerating development, we sometimes focus on negativity.

“Our role is to stimulate growth, promote development, and uphold the values that make us true Nigerians,“ she said.

Makanjuola encouraged journalists to prioritise balanced reporting, integrity, believability, and nationalism, which are essential for earning public trust.

“Until we start conducting ourselves professionally—ensuring our stories are well-rounded, our messages are inclusive, and our ethics are evident—the Nigerian media will not be fully recognised as a driving force for development.“

She noted that the NIPR conference served as a wake-up call for media and public relations practitioners to uphold ethical standards, protect their reputations, and contribute positively to national progress.

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has appointed Chief Yomi Badejo-Okunsanya, the immediate-past president of the African Public Relations Association (APRA), as chairman of the Board of the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG).

To assist Badejo-Okusanya are Hajiya Lami Tumaka as 1st Vice Chairman and Dr. Alice Ajeh as 2nd Vice Chairman.

This followed the successful unveiling of the NRMG in Abuja on October 15, 2024, an initiative by the NIPR aimed at finding lasting solutions to reputational issues affecting Nigeria’s growth and development.

In a statement issued to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, the Director of Public Relations at NIPR, Stanley Ogadigo, announced the appointments.

Speaking at the virtual inauguration of the Committee, NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku emphasised that the nation’s reputation is a key priority for the Institute. He noted that Nigeria needed a strong reputation as an asset to trade in the global market.

Approved by the Governing Council of NIPR during its 117th meeting, Chief Badejo-Okunsanya will lead a 17-member team of experts, including: Malam Jibrin Baba-Ndace – Member, Prof. Okey Ikechukwu – Member, Dr. Jossy Nkwocha – Member, H.E. Amb. Tope Elias-Fatile – Member, and Dr. Nkechi Ali-Balogun – Member.

Other members include: Alhaji Sadiq Kassim – Member, Mr. Franklyn Ginger-Eke – Member, Chief Tokunbo Modupe – Member, Chief Moji Makanjuola – Member, Mr. Stanley Ogadigo – Member

Additional members are representatives from the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Lawal Oluwatosin Kafayat – Member; the NIPR Young Professionals Hub, represented by Mr. Nanfa Nandap – Member; and a nominee from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, whose appointment was still awaited. The CEO of the NRMG, once appointed, will serve as Secretary to the Board.

Among other responsibilities, the Board has been tasked with working closely with the NIPR Council and other partners to facilitate the construction of the Nigeria Reputation House.