Abuja: The President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, has appealed to professional organisations in the communication, information, and marketing sectors to collaborate in advancing national development. Neliaku made the appeal during the public presentation of the book ‘Nigeria Media Renaissance: GOCOP Perspectives on Online Publishing’, published by the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the spirit of national development is a common interest among the NIPR, GOCOP, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), and National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN). Dr. Neliaku emphasized that each member organisation offers a unique service that adds value to nation-building. He highlighted the importance of collaboration, noting that it is essential for promoting the Nigerian brand and ensuring the country remains a model among nations.
Dr. Neliaku commended GOCOP for documenting the evolution of online journalism in Nigeria and advocating for self-regulation to combat unethical media practices. He also urged online publishers to maintain high ethical standards and professionalism. The newly launched book emphasizes the role of self-regulation in addressing unethical practices within the media profession and explores historical contexts related to the development of digital communication and economy in selected states.
In his remarks, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, recognized the extensive reach of digital media but cautioned against misinformation, disinformation, and fake news, which he described as threats to national peace and democracy. GOCOP President, Ms. Maureen Chigbo, reaffirmed the guild’s commitment to promoting ethical practices in the online media space.