Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa has described the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) as a catalyst for unity in governance, stressing the importance of effective communication in promoting peace, public trust and sustainable development.
Fintiri stated this on Thursday during the 18th Sam Epelle Annual Memorial Lecture at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Yola, where he was invested as Patron and World Ambassador of the institute in recognition of his administration’s contributions to governance and development.
The governor expressed appreciation to the NIPR leadership for the honour, describing it as an encouragement to sustain efforts towards improving the lives of residents of the state.
He said the hosting of the NIPR Annual Conference in Yola would provide an opportunity to showcase his administration’s achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, poverty alleviation and tourism.
Fintiri said the state had recorded development in urban renewal, rural infrastructure and social welfare over the past seven years, with efforts directed at improving the living conditions of vulnerable households.
He added that his administration had invested in education and healthcare while strengthening poverty alleviation and wealth creation initiatives through the Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency (PAWECA).
According to him, the conference would also help position Adamawa as a destination for tourism, hospitality and investment, while creating opportunities for business growth.
The governor stressed that developing the tourism and hospitality sectors required adequate infrastructure, including good roads, modern hotels, conference facilities and a clean environment.
He identified the development of an international conference centre and recreational facilities, including an amusement park, as part of efforts to boost tourism and hospitality in the state.
Fintiri expressed confidence that the presence of public relations professionals would help project Adamawa’s development efforts, improve its public image and attract potential investors.
In his remarks, the APC governorship candidate in Adamawa, Ahmed Tijjani , congratulated the governor on the recognition, describing it as an acknowledgement of his leadership and contributions to the state.
Galadima commended the administration’s efforts in road construction, infrastructure, education and healthcare, while applauding the NIPR for recognising the governor.
Also speaking, the Hama Bachama, Dr Daniel Shaga, who delivered a keynote address on behalf of the Adamawa State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, called on the NIPR to expand its membership to accommodate more Nigerians.
Shaga said expanding membership would strengthen professionalism, promote ethical standards and improve the practice of public relations across the country.
He added that wider membership, coupled with strict adherence to professional ethics, would help address some of the challenges facing society.
Shaga also acknowledged the governor’s commitment to the development of Adamawa and expressed optimism about his future political aspirations after completing his tenure.
Earlier, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of NIPR, Dr Ike Neliaku, said Fintiri’s record in governance, leadership and peacebuilding informed the decision to invest him as Patron and World Ambassador of the institute.
Neliaku urged public relations practitioners to uphold professional ethics, promote transparency and strengthen public trust in government and other institutions.
He said effective communication remained essential to good governance, national unity and sustainable development, adding that practitioners had a responsibility to promote peace, responsible leadership and constructive engagement among Nigerians.
