PR Consultants meet, review industry changing reforms

The Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN) has held a successful stakeholder engagement forum which brought together industry experts and practitioners to a presentation of the Association’s revised operating guidelines and Byelaw recently approved y the Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.

The reforms align PRCAN with global best practices in public relations consultancy, promote inclusivity, and enhance service delivery.

“We are thrilled to have taken this significant step towards strengthening our Association,” said Nkechi Ali-Balogun, Chairman/CEO of PRCAN.
“The guidelines and the Byelaw serve as the foundation of our shared principles, outlining our structure, processes, and responsibilities.

Today’s engagement is a commencement point for the implementation of these reforms, which will ensure our legal and operating frameworks are structurally sound, representative of diverse voices, and aligned with modern demands.”

The reforms were necessary updates to the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Byelaw No. 3 of 1993, which established PRCAN and set forth the first regulations guiding PR consulting business in Nigeria. After 32 years, the Byelaw required review and recalibration to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the industry.

“These reforms are crucial in broadening inclusivity, regulating client and practitioner relationships, equipping practitioners for modern service delivery, and protecting practitioners from exploitation. They will add significant value to our clients and practitioners, ensuring our Association remains fit for purpose and relevant in today’s fast-paced industry.” Ali-Balogun explained.

The forum brought together practitioners from diverse backgrounds, providing a platform for insightful discussions and valuable feedback on the reforms. Four past presidents of PRCAN, Chief Nn’emeka Maduegbuna, Mazi Mike Okereke, John Ehiguese, and Israel Opayemi, attended the event, lending their expertise and experience to the discussions.

Delivering a goodwill message, Mazi Mike Okereke, CEO, Mike Okereke Consulting, commended the current Executive Committee for its revitalization efforts abd.stated that PRCAN has historically contributed significantly to establishing Public Relations practice in Nigeria. He emphasised the need to reposition PRCAN as a leading authority on matters affecting the profession and a driver behind NIPR’s activities.

“We appreciate the efforts of these esteemed individuals and all attendees for their valuable contributions,” Ali-Balogun said. “Their input will be instrumental in implementing these reforms and shaping the future of our Association. We look forward to continued collaboration and progress as we implement these reforms.”