The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has cautioned Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) against appointing unqualified individuals as information officers and spokespersons.

The Institute insisted that the practice of public relations requires specialised knowledge and skills, which it said can only be acquired through professional training and certification.

National President of the NIPR, Ike Neliaku, gave the advice during the induction ceremony of 421 new members and officers of the Federal Ministry of Information over the weekend in Abuja.

Noting that practising public relations without certification could lead to severe legal consequences, including prosecution and imprisonment, Neliaku lamented the infiltration of unqualified individuals into the profession.

He noted that public relations professionals operating without certification from the institute are deemed quacks under federal law.

According to him, Nigerians are beginning to appreciate public relations as a solution-oriented profession.

He noted that the institute had been advocating for qualified individuals to come forward and become chartered, adding that under the law, anyone practising without certification is a quack.

“The law provides for criminal prosecution of individuals practising public relations without certification. Conviction could lead to a fine, imprisonment, or both. Importantly, once convicted, a person becomes an ex-convict, and the associated stigma is serious. This underscores the importance of compliance,” he said.

READ ALSO:Embrace integrity, selflessness, NIPR President tells Nigerian leaders

Earlier in his remarks, the Minister of Information, Idris Mohammed, commended the NIPR for its role in fostering effective communication in governance.

The minister, who was represented by the ministry’s Director of Public Relations and Protocol, Suleiman Haruna, noted the challenges posed by fake news and misinformation in the digital age.

He said, “We operate in a dynamic environment where the speed and scale of information dissemination present both opportunities and challenges. The digital age empowers citizens with access to information but also fuels misinformation and disinformation.

“As professionals, you are tasked with ensuring that truth prevails over falsehood and facts triumph over fiction. To the newly inducted members, I urge you to uphold the values of the NIPR and serve as ambassadors of truth, integrity, and excellence.

“Remember, your work reflects not just on your organisation but on the entire nation. In an information-driven world, the role of public relations professionals has never been more critical. Use your platforms to foster unity and project Nigeria positively on the global stage.”