By Gabriel Ameh
📍Abuja
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Grace Ike, has been formally inducted into the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), marking a significant milestone in her career and reinforcing the growing link between journalism and strategic communication.
Speaking during the induction ceremony, Ike described her admission into the institute as both a personal achievement and a professional evolution, reflecting her commitment to effective and ethical communication.
“This moment represents not just a personal milestone, but a bridge between my foundation in journalism and my continued journey into the dynamic field of public relations,” she said.
With over two decades of experience in journalism and media advocacy, Ike has remained a prominent voice in promoting press freedom and advancing the welfare of journalists.
As NUJ FCT Chairman, she has championed initiatives aimed at strengthening ethical standards and safeguarding the rights of media professionals.
Reflecting on her career, she emphasised the central role communication plays in shaping society.
“Communication is the lifeblood of society. It builds trust, shapes narratives, and drives meaningful change,” she stated.
Ike noted that her induction into the NIPR further reinforces her dedication to ethical and impactful communication, particularly at a time when misinformation and digital disruption continue to challenge the media landscape.
“As I join the NIPR, I bring with me the discipline and integrity of journalism—values that will guide my approach to public relations through ethical storytelling, strategic engagement, and amplifying voices, especially those of women in leadership and media,” she added.
She stressed that public relations extends beyond image management to encompass reputation building, perception shaping, crisis management, and the cultivation of meaningful relationships.
“In an era of misinformation, communication professionals must lead with integrity and foster dialogue that unites rather than divides,” Ike said.
Reaffirming her commitment to professional excellence, she pledged to uphold the institute’s standards, mentor emerging practitioners, and contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s communication ecosystem.
“Together, we must redefine public relations as a force for good transparent, inclusive, and transformative,” she noted.
Ike also highlighted the responsibility of communication professionals in safeguarding Nigeria’s image and credibility on the global stage.
“As custodians of national integrity, we must protect and project Nigeria’s image positively,” she said.
Other notable inductees at the ceremony included former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Evelyn Onyilo; Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Leke Bayewu; and Ikenna Egwuatu, among others.
The event drew communication experts, media stakeholders, and industry leaders, underscoring the increasing synergy between journalism and public relations in advancing national development.
