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 in media and communication.
Speaking at the induction ceremony, Ike described the moment as both a personal achievement and a professional expansion of her long-standing commitment to strategic communication.
“This moment marks not just a personal milestone, but a bridge between my roots in journalism and my forward march into the dynamic world of public relations,” she said.
With over two decades of experience in journalism and media advocacy, Ike has played a prominent role in advancing press freedom and championing the welfare of journalists. As NUJ FCT Council Chairman, she has led initiatives aimed at strengthening ethical standards and protecting the rights of media practitioners.
Reflecting on her journey, she emphasised the critical role of communication in nation-building.
“These experiences have taught me that communication is the lifeblood of society, building trust, shaping narratives, and driving change,” she stated.
Ike noted that her induction into the NIPR reinforces her commitment to ethical and impactful communication across both journalism and public relations. She pledged to bring journalistic discipline and integrity into public relations practice, particularly at a time when misinformation and digital disruption pose significant challenges.
“As I join the NIPR, I bring this journalistic rigour to public relations: a commitment to ethical storytelling, strategic engagement, and amplifying voices, especially those of women in leadership and media,” she added.
She stressed that public relations goes beyond image management to include reputation building, perception shaping, crisis management, and fostering meaningful relationships.
“In an era of misinformation, PR professionals must lead with integrity, fostering dialogue that unites rather than divides,” Ike said.
Reaffirming her commitment to professional excellence, she pledged to uphold the institute’s charter, mentor emerging practitioners, and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s communication landscape.
“Together, let us redefine public relations as a force for good — transparent, inclusive, and transformative,” she said.
Ike also underscored the responsibility of communication professionals in safeguarding national image and credibility.
“As custodians of national integrity, we must do all we can to protect and project Nigeria’s image positively,” she noted.
Other notable inductees at the event 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 induction ceremony attracted communication professionals, media stakeholders, and industry leaders, highlighting the growing synergy between journalism and public relations in advancing national development.