WARRI/Nigeria: The Delta State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender inclusion, professional development and ethical communication as essential pillars for sustainable development.
The commitment was highlighted during the chapter’s 2026 International Women’s Day celebration held at Hussey College, Warri, where communication professionals, stakeholders and students gathered to reflect on the theme, “Give to Gain.”
Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Positioning NIPR Delta State as a Leader in Advocacy for Gender Inclusion, Development and Ethical Communication in Line with ‘Give to Gain’,” educationist and Chartered Human Resource Consultant, Dr. Ejayeta Jeroh, called for deliberate and sustained efforts to empower women and expand inclusive opportunities across different sectors.
Dr. Jeroh noted that empowering women yields far-reaching benefits for families, communities and nations, stressing that women remain critical contributors to social and economic development.
He described advocacy as the act of supporting and defending causes with the aim of influencing policies and promoting positive social change. According to him, advocacy often involves strategic engagements such as awareness campaigns, research and policy dialogue designed to shape decisions within government, institutions and communities.
The keynote speaker further explained that gender inclusion entails ensuring equal rights, opportunities and access to resources for individuals irrespective of gender, adding that inclusive systems must address barriers that limit women’s participation in leadership, employment and decision-making processes.
Dr. Jeroh also emphasised the importance of continuous professional development within the public relations profession, urging practitioners to strengthen their competence through training, mentorship and professional certifications.
He noted that ethical communication, built on the principles of honesty, transparency, respect and accountability, remains vital in strengthening trust and credibility within the public relations profession.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Delta State Chapter of NIPR, Mr. Godfrey C. Osakwe, fnipr, said the celebration provided a platform to recognise the immense contributions of women to the growth of the public relations profession and society.
“Today offers us another meaningful opportunity to celebrate the immense contributions of women to the growth of our profession, our institutions, our families and our society. Indeed, when women rise, society gains,” Osakwe said.
He noted that women across Nigeria and the world have continued to demonstrate resilience, leadership and commitment to excellence in various sectors including governance, business, education and communication.
Osakwe paid tribute to women whose dedication and professionalism continue to shape a better society, noting that inclusive leadership remains essential for sustainable development.
According to him, the theme “Give to Gain” reflects the importance of investing in women through education, opportunities, resources and leadership platforms.
“When women are empowered, they strengthen families, nurture responsible communities and help build stronger institutions. Their impact extends beyond individual success and contributes significantly to societal transformation,” he added.
The NIPR chairman urged public relations practitioners to continue advocating policies and narratives that promote gender inclusion and equity across all sectors.
He also congratulated women in Delta State, Nigeria and across the world for their contributions to nation-building, particularly those recognised during the event for their dedication to service and leadership.
Earlier in his lecture, Dr. Jeroh noted that the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, established in 1963 and chartered by law to regulate public relations practice in Nigeria, plays a critical role in promoting professional standards, training practitioners and enforcing ethical conduct within the industry.
He urged the Delta State chapter to leverage its human capital and communication platforms, especially digital media, to strengthen advocacy for gender inclusion and ethical communication while positioning the chapter as a leader in professional development.
One of the award recipients, Dr. Doris Amaka Ochei, expressed gratitude to the NIPR Delta State Chapter for honouring her with an Award of Excellence for philanthropic service and advocacy.
She explained that the theme “Give to Gain” reflects the importance of selfless service, noting that giving time, resources and compassion creates lasting impact and stronger communities.
Through the DAO Foundation, Dr. Ochei said several community development initiatives have been implemented, including the provision of clean water through solar-powered boreholes, improvement of school environments, empowerment of the less privileged, medical support programmes, poverty alleviation initiatives and rehabilitation of market infrastructure.
She emphasised that true leadership is rooted in service and empathy, particularly in supporting women, girls and vulnerable members of society, while dedicating the award to all those who have supported the foundation’s mission.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of the EMT Foundation, Deaconess Dr. Mrs. Esther Tonlagha, represented by Dcns Harriet Mayuku, appreciated the NIPR Delta State Chapter for recognising the foundation during the celebration.
She commended the institute for providing a platform that highlights the critical role women play in shaping society.
Speaking on the theme “Give to Gain,” Tonlagha said true success lies not only in what individuals receive but also in what they give through mentorship, support and opportunities for others.
She explained that the EMT Foundation continues to empower women and vulnerable groups through health awareness programmes, education initiatives, youth development and economic empowerment projects.
Also remarking, the Principal of Hussey College, Warri, Mrs. Justina Wategire, represented by the Vice Principal (Academic), Mrs. Edigbe E. Paulina, appreciated the NIPR for bringing the programme to the school and for engaging students in conversations on leadership, service and gender inclusion.
A major highlight of the event was a panel discussion where participants emphasised the need for greater protection and opportunities for women in society, while acknowledging the immense contributions women continue to make to national development.
The programme also featured cash presentations to students and award presentations to Dr. Doris Amaka Ochei and Deaconess (Mrs.) Esther Tonlagha in recognition of their contributions to philanthropy and humanitarian services.
The event concluded with an interactive session during which participants discussed practical strategies for advancing gender inclusion and strengthening professional standards within the communication industry.
