From Isaac Job, Uyo
Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno has urged the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to promote Nigeria’s positive achievements and economic potential to attract foreign investors, moving away from negative publicity.
Hosting NIPR President Dr Ike Neliaku and council members at a dinner in Uyo during the institute’s Annual General Meeting, Eno stressed the need to rebrand Nigeria, saying, “The NIPR generally is supposed to help our brand as a nation and even at the sub-regional level. Help us build our brand; tell our stories in interesting ways that will encourage investors to come and invest in Nigeria.”
Eno criticised the tendency for “breaking news” to focus on negative events, urging a shift towards development-focused reporting. He stated, “Unfortunately, in Nigeria, when you hear ‘breaking news’, it’s always bad news. I think we can change that narrative and make our ‘breaking news’ good news that people will look forward to.”
He further encouraged balanced journalism, noting, “Let us encourage our leaders and make them feel appreciated. Leadership is an onerous responsibility that should be supported and encouraged for better job delivery.”
Additionally, Eno advocated for constructive criticism, saying, “I’m always of the opinion that if we encourage a leader, the day he doesn’t do well, we should politely and understandably draw his attention to correct what was not done well.”
He highlighted his administration’s tourism initiatives, including the Ibom Air expansion, a tourism hub at Ikot Abasi, Lord Lugard House, and an international conference centre, aiming to position Akwa Ibom as a top tourist destination within two years.
He added, “We would like to continue to partner with the Institute to assist and guide us and to tell our stories in the best way possible and even beyond what we, ourselves, can tell.”
Dr Neliaku praised Eno’s people-centred ARISE Agenda, particularly its focus on agriculture, rural development, infrastructure, security, and education, stating, “I took time to look at your development strategy, and I realised that your development ideology, the ARISE Agenda, is very critical to the critical areas of development. Your Excellency, you have got your priorities right.”
He also commended Eno’s plan to transform a 70-hectare gully erosion site into a world-class tourist centre, pledging NIPR’s support to promote these efforts globally.
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