CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – Governor Bassey Otu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to professional excellence, pledging sustained support for the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations as it begins a landmark project in the state.

The governor made the commitment during the foundation laying ceremony of the Cross River State chapter’s Reputation House, a project designed to strengthen institutional capacity and professional practice.

Represented by Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, Otu described the initiative as a strategic step toward promoting ethical leadership and strengthening governance through improved public perception management.

He stated that the project reflects a shared vision between government and communication professionals to build a credible image for the state, driven by transparency, accountability, and effective engagement.

“Today, we lay the foundation for the NIPR Reputation House in Cross River State, a testament to our collective commitment to promoting excellence,” the governor said.

He added that government recognises perception and relationships as critical tools in governance, stressing that collaboration with professionals remains key to delivering people-focused policies.

The governor commended members of the institute for their dedication, noting that their role in shaping narratives and public trust is essential to sustainable development.

“I commend NIPR for their tireless efforts in promoting professionalism and excellence in reputation management,” he stated, assuring continued government backing for the institute’s programmes.

Project Signals Institutional Growth

The project, located along Cultural Centre Road in Calabar, is expected to serve as a hub for training, research, and professional development in public relations practice.

The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to institutionalise ethical communication standards and strengthen the credibility of public and private sector engagements across the state.

The organisers did not disclose the total cost of the Reputation House project during the ceremony, leaving details of the financial scope unclear at the time of reporting.

Officials of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations also did not indicate funding sources, timelines for phased financing, or whether government contributions would be financial or logistical.

National Body Commends Initiative

National President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Ike Neliaku, described the project as ambitious, noting that such undertakings require resilience and long-term planning.

He said the institute is currently executing similar infrastructure at its national headquarters, emphasising that the Cross River chapter’s progress reflects strong leadership and commitment.

“My happiness stems from knowing you have passed the critical land acquisition stage at a prime location,” Neliaku stated during his keynote address.

He expressed confidence that resources required for completion would be mobilised, urging members to maintain unity and focus throughout the construction process.

Enterprise Approach Recommended

Neliaku advised the chapter to adopt an enterprise-driven model in developing the facility, ensuring that the building generates revenue while serving professional needs.

He recommended the inclusion of rentable spaces, such as halls, to support sustainability and reduce dependence on external funding sources for maintenance and operations.

The NIPR president also stressed the importance of environmentally conscious construction, noting that modern institutions must reflect ecological balance and sustainability principles.

“We are standardising our structures nationwide, and all NIPR buildings are now called Reputation Houses,” he explained, highlighting a unified branding strategy across chapters.

He added that the naming reflects the institute’s renewed focus on reputation management as a core professional mandate in governance and corporate environments.

Leadership Commendation and Institutional Strength

Also speaking, NIPR Vice President, Emmanuel Dandaura, commended the Cross River chapter for maintaining a strong reputation as one of the most active in the country.

He noted that successive leadership in the state has consistently delivered impactful programmes, including hosting national events and promoting professional development initiatives.

“Your model of leadership is worth emulating,” Dandaura said, attributing the chapter’s success to commitment, teamwork, and adherence to professional ethics.

He further acknowledged council members who attended the event from different parts of the country, describing their presence as a demonstration of solidarity and institutional strength.

According to him, the institute has continued to grow under current leadership, positioning itself as a globally recognised professional body in public relations practice.

• Pa James Says Papa Ajasco Earnings Not Enough to Cover Living Costs
• Justin Bieber, Usher Reportedly Clash at Beyoncé’s Oscars After-Party
• NIPR Reputation House Begins In Calabar, Undisclosed Cost Raises Transparency Concerns
• Borno Governor Places Residents On Red Alert, Says, We Are Anticipating More Bomb Explosions During Sallah
• Presidency Clarifies Scope of UK Migration Agreement Amid Misinformation

Chapter Leadership Highlights Vision

In his welcome address, Cross River chapter chairman, Augustine Mboso, described the project as more than a physical structure, but a symbol of professional advancement.

He explained that the Reputation House would serve as a centre for innovation, knowledge exchange, and capacity building for practitioners within and outside the state.

Mboso stated that the facility would enhance research activities, promote best practices, and strengthen the institute’s role in shaping communication strategies across sectors.

He expressed appreciation to Governor Otu for his consistent support, noting that the administration’s backing has been instrumental in achieving key milestones.

“I express my heartfelt gratitude to Governor Bassey Otu for his unwavering support and vision for this project,” Mboso said.

He reaffirmed the chapter’s commitment to delivering a world-class facility that will empower members and contribute to effective reputation management in governance and business.

Strengthening Governance Through Communication

Stakeholders at the event emphasized that the project represents a broader effort to align governance with professional communication standards, ensuring accurate information dissemination and public trust.

They noted that institutions like NIPR play a critical role in shaping narratives, managing crises, and promoting transparency in both public and private sectors.

The ceremony also featured the formal recognition of Governor Otu as a patron of the institute, further strengthening collaboration between government and communication professionals.

Observers believe the partnership will enhance policy communication, improve stakeholder engagement, and reinforce the state’s image at national and international levels.

With construction set to commence fully, stakeholders expressed optimism that the project would be completed within schedule, delivering long-term benefits to practitioners and the state.

The development marks a significant step in institutionalising professional standards in Cross River State, positioning it as a hub for excellence in public relations and reputation management.