Mr. Godfrey Osakwe, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Delta State Chapter, has emphasized the crucial role of public relations in fostering unity, public trust, and democratic principles.
Mr. Osakwe made the remarks during the World Public Relations Day 2025 celebration, which took place at the Professor Chike Edozien Secretariat in Asaba.
Building bridges and navigating polarization is the theme of this year’s global observance.
This year’s dialogue, as he noted, is a convergence of students of communication from tertiary institutions, NYSC members, public relations professionals, academics, and other stakeholders, all gathered to delve into the pivotal role of public relations in governance and nation-building, fostering a comprehensive understanding of its potency.
He emphasized that this theme serves as a timely reminder of the vital role public relations plays in shaping business, institutions, governance, social cohesion, and personal and national reputation.
He urged practitioners to keep it real and honest in all their interactions with the public and their institutions, emphasizing the importance of high ethical standards.
As part of the event, Dr. Joy Anho, Deputy Rector of the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku; Dr. Collins Kediehor of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba; Dr. Chike Nwadike, Head of the Department of Mass Communication at Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, and Dr. Harvey Igben, former Head of the Department of Mass Communication, DELSU, Abraka, collectively underscored the vital role of public relations professionals as strategic intermediaries between government and the public—tasked with countering misinformation, managing crises, and promoting truthful, impactful storytelling at the panel session.
Also, the public relations officer of the institute, Dr. Fred Oghenesivbe, who is also the Director-General of the Delta State Directorate of Orientation and Communications, and Mr. Felix Ofou, Executive Assistant on New Media to the Governor, emphasized that PR advisers in government have a constitutional responsibility to ensure timely, transparent, and fact-based communication.
The duo said such professionalism is essential not only for maintaining public trust but also for reinforcing the credibility and effectiveness of governance, for policy acceptance and for preserving the integrity of governance structures.
They reaffirmed the importance of aligning communication strategies with ethical standards and constitutional values.
The event featured an interactive session, where corps members, students and participants engaged with the panelists.
