By: Theresa Donatus, Uyo.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has been officially inducted as Patron of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Uyo chapter, in a colorful ceremony held during the ongoing Nigerian Public Relations Week (NPRW25) in Uyo.
The event, which formed part of the Institute’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), featured inductions, inauguration of fellows, and council elections. It culminated in the re-election of Dr. Ike Neliaku as President and Chairman-in-Council of the NIPR, alongside Comrade Ini Ememobong and 15 other council members.
During his acceptance speech, Governor Eno expressed gratitude for the honor and pledged to uphold the code of conduct guiding the Institute.
He reaffirmed his support for the NIPR’s mission and called on its members to continue promoting Nigeria’s image positively.
Governor Eno also voiced his backing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, urging Nigerians to remain patient and supportive as national reforms take shape.
Highlighting his administration’s achievements, Governor Eno noted that several key infrastructure projects in Akwa Ibom State have been executed without resorting to external loans.
He credited improved federal revenue disbursements, driven by President Tinubu’s strategic economic decisions, for the state’s financial stability.
“Our vision is to make Akwa Ibom a top-tier tourist destination in Nigeria,” Eno stated, referencing the ongoing redevelopment of the abandoned 5,000-seater International Conference Centre and the construction of a 200-room world-class hotel as flagship tourism projects.
Performing the investiture, Dr. Neliaku who was re-elected applauded Governor Eno for his commitment to professionalism and public trust, describing the recognition as a testament to the Governor’s reputation and support for public relations ethics.
Addressing members at the AGM, Dr. Neliaku also reviewed his administration’s accomplishments, including digitizing membership processes, launching sectoral hubs, signing strategic MoUs, and organizing the Nigeria Spokespersons Summit.
NPRW25, themed “Harnessing Public Relations for Economic Renaissance,” drew wide participation from the state executive council, political figures, NIPR fellows, and members.
The weeklong celebration featured diverse activities such as a PR roundtable with traditional rulers, student engagement forums, plenary sessions, posthumous awards, and the installation of the Institute’s Body of Advisers.
