Fintiri Describes NIPR as Catalyst for Unity, Good Governance
Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has described the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) as a catalyst for unity and effective governance, emphasising the role of professional communication in promoting peace, public trust and sustainable development.

The governor stated this on Thursday at the 18th Sam Epelle Annual Memorial Lecture, held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Yola, where he was invested as Patron and World Ambassador of the institute in recognition of his administration’s contributions to governance and development.

Fintiri expressed appreciation to the NIPR leadership for the honour, describing it as an encouragement to sustain efforts towards improving the lives of Adamawa residents.

He said the hosting of the NIPR annual conference in Yola would provide an opportunity to showcase the state’s development strides over the past seven years, particularly in infrastructure, education, healthcare, poverty alleviation and tourism.

The governor highlighted investments in urban renewal, rural infrastructure and social development, including wealth creation initiatives implemented through the Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency (PAWECA).

He added that the conference would help position Adamawa as a destination for tourism, hospitality and investment, noting that sustained growth in these sectors required good roads, modern hotels, conference facilities and a clean environment.

Fintiri also highlighted the development of an international conference centre and recreational facilities, including an amusement park, as part of his administration’s efforts to strengthen the state’s tourism and hospitality sectors.

He expressed confidence that the gathering of public relations professionals would help project Adamawa’s development efforts, enhance its public image and attract investment.

In his remarks, the APC governorship candidate, Ahmed Tijjani Galadima Aminu, congratulated the governor on the recognition, citing the administration’s investments in roads, education, healthcare and other critical sectors.

Delivering a keynote address on behalf of the Adamawa State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, the Hama Bachama, Dr. Daniel Samaila Shaga, urged the NIPR to expand its membership to accommodate more Nigerians, strengthen professionalism and promote ethical standards in public relations practice.

He noted that broader participation and strict adherence to professional ethics could help address societal challenges. He also commended the state government’s development efforts and expressed optimism about Fintiri’s future political aspirations after completing his tenure.

Earlier, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, said the governor’s record in governance, leadership and peacebuilding informed the decision to confer the honours on him.

Neliaku urged public relations practitioners nationwide to uphold professional ethics, promote transparency and strengthen public trust in government and other institutions. He stressed that effective communication remained essential to national unity, peaceful coexistence and sustainable development.

Other speakers commended the state government’s development initiatives and called for sustained commitment to the progress of Adamawa State.

Traditional rulers from across the state and hundreds of other guests attended the event.