Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Oladayo Jonathan
Published on 2024-03-26 21:04:25
Effective communication plays a crucial role in shaping societal narratives, especially in the current landscape dominated by disinformation and propaganda. Vice President Kashim Shettima highlighted this during his address at the inaugural Summit of Spokespersons organized by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation in Abuja.
Mr. Shettima, represented by his spokesperson Stanley Nkwocha, stressed the importance of building a positive image and reputation, emphasizing how these factors impact the conversations surrounding individuals. He acknowledged the power wielded by spokespersons in maintaining social order and underscored the need for truthful communication to counter falsehoods and targeted agendas.
In his address titled “Constructive Narrative Amidst the Chaos,” Mr. Shettima expressed his honor in joining the gathering of individuals shaping the world. He highlighted the significance of truthful communication in stabilizing or disrupting social order and the importance of exchanging ideas and knowledge within a framework of order.
Referring to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to citizen engagement and accurate information dissemination, Mr. Shettima urged participants to craft narratives that reshape Nigeria’s story and reinvent society. He emphasized the responsibility of spokespersons to navigate the complexities of the media landscape with clarity and responsibility, fostering dialogue and consensus-building.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized the paramount importance of crafting a national narrative that can unite the nation. He called for effective communication to promote growth, stability, and development in Nigeria, highlighting the enduring impact of communication beyond words.
The President of NIPR, Ike Neliaku, advocated for non-violent communication in Nigeria and emphasized the need to assemble top-tier experts with experience as spokespersons to navigate the current challenges. He underscored the profound impact of words on shaping the nation’s collective consciousness and urged spokespersons to recognize their role as stewards of the nation’s narrative.
The event witnessed the presence of dignitaries such as the Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Kayode Alabi, and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, among others. The keynote speaker, Former Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority, Tonnie Iredia, shared insights on effective communication in steering the country towards progress.
In conclusion, the Summit of Spokespersons highlighted the crucial role of effective communication in combating disinformation and propaganda, reshaping societal narratives, and fostering unity and development in Nigeria. Through clarity, responsibility, and inclusivity, spokespersons can contribute to building a positive image and reputation for individuals and entities, ultimately shaping the nation’s story and reinventing society.
Read the original article on Premium Times
