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), a development she described as a defining step in her professional journey bridging journalism and strategic communication.
Speaking shortly after the induction ceremony in Abuja, Ike said the recognition represents both a personal milestone and an opportunity to expand her commitment to responsible and impactful communication.
According to her, the new role creates a strong link between her longstanding career in journalism and the evolving field of public relations.
“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 more than two decades of experience in the media industry, Ike has remained a vocal advocate for press freedom and journalists’ welfare. As NUJ FCT Council chairman, she has led several initiatives aimed at strengthening ethical standards within the profession while promoting the rights and safety of media practitioners.
Reflecting on her career trajectory, she underscored the importance of communication in shaping societies and driving national development.
“These experiences have taught me that communication is the lifeblood of society, building trust, shaping narratives, and driving change,” she noted.
The NUJ leader said her induction into NIPR would further strengthen her dedication to ethical communication practices across both journalism and public relations, especially at a time when misinformation and the fast-changing digital media landscape continue to challenge the credibility of information.
“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 emphasised that modern public relations goes beyond image management to include reputation building, perception shaping, crisis communication, and fostering meaningful relationships between institutions and the public.
“In an era of misinformation, PR professionals must lead with integrity, fostering dialogue that unites rather than divides,” Ike said.
She also pledged to uphold the professional standards and charter of the institute, while supporting mentorship and professional growth for emerging practitioners in the communication sector.
“Together, let us redefine public relations as a force for good — transparent, inclusive, and transformative,” she stated.
Ike further highlighted the responsibility of communication professionals in safeguarding the country’s global image.
“As custodians of national integrity, we must do all we can to protect and project the image of Nigeria positively,” she said.
Other notable inductees at the ceremony included former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Evelyn Onyilo; the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Leke Bayewu; and Ikenna Egwuatu, among others.
The event attracted communication professionals, media stakeholders, and industry leaders, underscoring the growing collaboration between journalism and public relations in promoting transparency, responsible communication, and national development.
