The Minister of Information, Idris Mohammed, has charged the Nigerian Institute for Public Relations (NIPR), to help develop strategies to curb the spread of fake news and disinformation.
While praising the institute for playing a remarkable role in transforming information management, the minister assured the institute of government’s continued support for promoting professionalism.
He said this during the induction of 421 new members of the NIPR, at the Federal Ministry of Information, in Abuja, yesterday.
The minister who was represented by the Director of Public Relations and Protocol in the ministry, Suleiman Haruna, expressed sadness that some mischievous Nigerians were taking advantage of the digital age to peddle fake news and misinformation.
Idris said, “We operate in a dynamic environment where the speed and scale of information dissemination present both challenges and opportunities.
“The digital age has empowered citizens with access to information but has also given rise to misinformation and disinformation.
“As professionals, you are now tasked with the critical responsibility of ensuring that truth prevails over falsehood and that facts triumph over fiction.
“To the newly inducted members, I charge you to uphold the values of the NIPR and to be ambassadors of truth, integrity, and excellence in your respective roles.
“Remember, your work does not merely reflect on your organization or institution; it reflects on the entire nation.
“ In a world driven by information, the role of public relations professionals has never been more vital. Use your platforms to foster unity and project Nigeria in a positive light to the global community.”
Earlier, National President of the NIPR, Dr Ike Neliaku, warned government ministries, departments and agencies to avoid engaging uncertified professionals as spokespersons and heads of communication units.
He warned that the institute under his leadership has zero tolerance for quarks as such, any individual caught practising without certification risks prosecution and possible imprisonment.
Neliaku said, “People are beginning to appreciate the practice of public relations as a solution-providing institute.
“Secondly, we have been advocating for those who are qualified to come forward and become chartered.
“According to the law of the federation, you are a quack if you are not certified by the institute.
“As a matter of fact, the law of the institute provides for criminal prosecution for persons practising public relations for games without certification from the institute.
“And nobody wants to be an ex-convict because if a person is taken to court, there is option of fine, imprisonment or both.
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/12/fg-tasks-nipr-on-fight-against-fake-news-disinformation/
“The important thing is that once you are convicted, you become an ex-convict. It is as serious as that and there is a stigma that goes with anybody that becomes an ex-convict.”
Among the newly decorated NIPR members was the pioneer Managing Director of the NNPC Foundation Limited, Mrs. Emmanuel Arukwe, who was inducted as an honorary fellow of the institute. End.
Adeleke Damilola (ACTION) is a versatile content writer with expertise in news writing and a seasoned media professional and broadcast specialist. Currently serving as News Editor for DNews Info, Damilola is also the CEO of the ACTION brand, committed to shaping lives and establishing a legacy of excellence for present and future generations.
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