In a move aimed at reshaping the future of the Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN), the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) announced on Monday the dissolution of the association's executive committee, which had been led by Israel Opayemi. This decision comes after a thorough evaluation of PRCAN's operations, according to a statement released in Abuja by Stanley Ogadigo, the NIPR's Director of Public Relations.
Ogadigo explained that the dissolution was a necessary step following the NIPR's review, which identified several key concerns affecting PRCAN's performance and strategic direction. These issues included the extension of tenure for committee members beyond acceptable limits, waning effectiveness in fulfilling the association's objectives, and the overall need to revamp and align PRCAN with the broader goals of the NIPR.
The NIPR's move is seen as an effort to ensure that PRCAN remains a relevant and dynamic force within the public relations industry. Ogadigo emphasized that the decision to dissolve the executive committee adhered to legal and regulatory frameworks, and was made with the aim of revitalizing the association to better serve its members and the industry at large.
As part of the restructuring efforts, NIPR has appointed Nkechi Ali-Balogun, a Fellow of the Institute and the Founder/CEO of NECCI Consults, as the new Chairman of the Council Committee on the Revitalization of PRCAN. Ali-Balogun, who brings extensive experience in both public relations and leadership, will be tasked with overseeing the reformation process. Her responsibilities include ensuring that the association holds a fair and transparent election for new leadership, which is to take place no later than April 30, 2025.
In addition to Ali-Balogun's appointment, the revitalisation committee will consist of a diverse group of professionals, each bringing their expertise to the table. The members of the committee include Karibi George, Dr. Ahmad Sajoh, Hajia Lami Tumaka, Chido Nwakanma, and Mr. Hassan Abdul. They will be joined by Bolaji Okusaga, Adetola Odusote, Muyiwa Akintunde, Dr. Sophia Horsfall, Mojisola Saka, and Dr. Dare Ogunyombo, who will serve as Member/Secretary.
This reshaping of PRCAN’s leadership is part of NIPR's broader strategy to strengthen the public relations profession in Nigeria. Ogadigo also highlighted that the NIPR had formally communicated its decision to the outgoing president of PRCAN, Israel Opayemi, expressing gratitude for his leadership and requesting his cooperation in ensuring a smooth transition. The letter, dated December 21, 2024, emphasized the importance of a seamless handover to facilitate the revitalisation process.
