A Director of Public Affairs with the Lagos State Government, Dr. Samuel Ayetutu, who was elected for a two-year term as Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), has pledged to run an inclusive administration.
On 11 June, Ayetutu, who was elected Vice Chairman of the chapter for a second term in 2023, assumed office as Chairman to serve the remaining term of the then Chairman, Mrs. Comfort Obot Nwankwo who had been elected as a member of the Governing Council of the NIPR. With his election on Thursday during the chapter’s Annual General Meeting at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos, Ayetutu now starts his first term as Chairman.
In his acceptance speech, the new helmsman assured: ‘Under the New Lagos, I and my team will lead with an open-door policy, devoid of bias or sentiment, ensuring that every voice is heard, respected and valued. Together, we will foster a culture of inclusiveness, transparency and innovation that will propel our profession to greater heights’.
He then charged members: ‘This is our collective call to action. Let us unite our talents, energy and ideas to achieve the vision we all desire, because the future we seek for our profession depends on the steps we take together today.
‘Once again, I thank you for your trust and faith in my leadership. Let us begin this journey with renewed passion and an unshakable commitment to excellence’.
On behalf of his new team, Aiyetutu expressed ‘heartfelt appreciation’ to all members for their support and goodwill as the executive committee assumes the ‘responsibility of leading our great chapter’.
He further said: ‘Your confidence in our ability to serve is both humbling and inspiring.
‘We are committed to working closely with you to advance the practice of public relations, strengthen our Chapter’s influence, and create greater opportunities for professional growth.
‘Together, we will build on the solid foundation laid by our predecessors and champion initiatives that reflect the excellence for which Lagos NIPR is renowned.
‘Thank you once again for your trust, encouragement, and commitment. We look forward to an exciting and impactful tenure with your continued partnership’.
Ayetutu and seven other members of the new team were endorsed by accredited members despite their seats having no challengers. But two members – Dr. Fatima Binta Ahmadu (the outgoing General Secretary) and Mrs. Eniola Mayowa – contested for Vice Chairmanship. Mayowa, a Fellow of the NIPR, won with 78 votes to 37.
Others officers elected include Samuel Adeyemi (Secretary), Rita Ali-Nock (Assistant Secretary), Oguchukwu Okeke (Public Relations Officer) and Bassey Nta (Financial Secretary).
Others are Olabamiji Adeleye (Treasurer), Funmilola Akintola (Welfare Officer) and Quadri Adeleke (Ex-Officio – Provost Marshal).
