PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE – The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Rivers State Chapter, has announced the successful re-election and inauguration of its State Executive Committee, a landmark event that coincided with the maiden edition of the Rivers Public Relations Week and Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Friday, October 10, in Port Harcourt.
In a press release issued to Africa Update, the NIPR confirmed that the convergence of members marked a historic moment for the chapter as it consolidated its leadership to chart a new course for professional excellence, ethical standards, and the advancement of public relations practice within the state.
The officers were officially sworn in by the Registrar and Secretary to the NIPR Council, who strongly charged the committee members to redouble their efforts in upholding professional integrity and excellence across all public relations engagements.
The election saw the core executive slate successfully returned to office, signifying a strong vote of confidence from the chapter’s membership. The following officials were either re-elected or newly brought into the Executive Committee:
| Position | Officer | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Chairman | Rev. Francis Asuk, fnipr | Re-elected |
| Vice Chairman | Dr. Parry Saroh Benson, mnipr | Re-elected |
| Secretary | Mr. Felix Tamuno, anipr | Re-elected |
| Treasurer | Mrs. Ayo Odungweru, anipr | Re-elected |
| Financial Secretary | Ms. Edna Alete, mnipr | Re-elected |
| Assistant Secretary | Dr. Helen Chimezie, anipr | Newly Elected |
| Public Relations Officer | Mr. Ayodeji Emmanuel Afelumo, anipr | Newly Elected |
| Welfare Officer | Mrs. Ngowari Oba, anipr | Newly Elected |
In his acceptance remarks, the Chairman, Rev. Francis Asuk, fnipr, expressed profound gratitude for the renewed confidence shown by the members. He pledged to uphold the highest ideals of the Institute, focusing particularly on promoting continuous professional development and fostering strategic partnerships that will enhance the visibility of public relations in Rivers State and beyond.
The week-long event itself was the first of its kind organized by a state chapter of the Institute. It provided a dynamic platform for practitioners, scholars, and key stakeholders to engage in knowledge-sharing, networking, and robust discussions on the evolving and critical role of public relations in governance, business, and society at large.
The NIPR Rivers State Chapter anticipates a new era of purposeful leadership, innovation, and positive impact under the stewardship of its newly inaugurated Executive Council.
Source: Ayodeji Emmanuel Afelumo Public Relations Officer NIPR, Rivers State Chapter October 11, 2025
