NIPR President Commends Women’s Contributions to National Development
The President and Chairman Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, has applauded the numerous contributions of women in national development.
Speaking on Thursday at the 10th anniversary of She Forum Africa, Dr. Neliaku, represented by Council Member Mrs. Olubunmi Badejo, said women have over the years demonstrated their capacity in leadership positions across various strata of human society.
“Women are an important component in nation building, they have made significant contributions in all sectors of the economy, including public relations. I am therefore delighted to state that the NIPR is one of the organizations that is gender sensitive and takes women very seriously.”
Dr. Neliaku urged more women to take up leadership positions in public relations and other fields. He said the NIPR is committed to providing support and opportunities for women to develop their careers.
The She Forum Africa is an annual event that brings together women leaders from across Africa to discuss issues of gender equality and women’s empowerment. The 10th anniversary event was held in Lagos, Nigeria, and was attended by over 500 women.
In her remarks, Mrs. Badejo said the NIPR is proud to support the She Forum Africa. She said the event is a platform for women to share their experiences and learn from each other.
“The NIPR is committed to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment,” she said. “We believe that women have a vital role to play in national development.”
She stated that NIPR as a professional and responsible organisation will continue to support causes that promote women inclusivity, without compromising standards and merit.
“For instance, at the just concluded 2023 NIPR Conference, Annual General Meeting and Elections here in Abuja, credible and competent women were overwhelmingly voted into the Governing Council of the Institute.
“Out of 17 elected Council Members, five are women, and out of the five Federal Government Nominees, three are women, making a total of eight women versus 14 male counterparts. Put mathematically, the current Council has 36.36% of women representation, which in my opinion I think that is fair enough”.
Dr. Neliaku emphasised that all the women both elected and appointed into the Governing Council were not considered because they are women, but chosen based on merit, capacity and value.
The NIPR President tasked the participants to live up to the theme of the event: “Challenge Your Limits” by challenging the statusquo and providing value to take their pride of place in the society.
He commended the convener of She Forum Africa, Ms. Inimfon Etuk for the initiative and efforts in sustaining the platform for this long period of time.
