Writing by KHADIJAH ALIYU; Editing by BASIRAT MEMUDU
The Kano State Government has announced plans to register all Information Officers serving in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as those in the 44 Local Government Areas, with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) aimed to improve professionalism and enhance service delivery across public bodies.
The Kano state Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, made this known while receiving the executive members of the NIPR, Kano chapter who paid him a courtesy visit In his office.
According to him, information officers serving in the 44 Local Government Areas would be part of the arrangements, a move which aligns with the legal framework regulating public relations practice in Nigeria.
He emphasized the need for Information Officers to be registered with professional bodies, aimed at enhancing service delivery across public bodies.
“As custodians of public information, it is crucial for our officers to be professionally certified to ensure efficiency and adherence to best practices”.
The commissioner explained that the Ministry has been working to strengthen the capacities of Information Officers attached to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) as well as Local Governments.
Comrade Waiya who assured that the collaboration between the Ministry and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) would continue beyond registration said the partnership would focus on training and retraining to improve information management in the state.
The Chairman of the NIPR Kano State Chapter, Aliyu Yusuf, congratulated Waiya on his appointment, describing it as well-deserved.
Chairman of the Nigerian Guild of Editors Kano, Jigawa and council member NIPR, Dr. Sule Ya’u Sule, reiterated that the NIPR is the legally recognized regulatory body for public relations practice in Nigeria.
Sule pointed out that practicing public relations without NIPR certification is a violation of the law, urging the Commissioner to ensure that all Information Officers obtain the necessary certification Officers in the state comply with this requirements.
He also assured that the institute is ready to facilitate an induction program in Kano for the convenience of the officers.
