NIPR Delta Advocates Gender Inclusion, Ethical Communication at International Women’s Day Lecture

The Delta State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting gender inclusion, professional development and ethical communication as key drivers of sustainable development.

This formed the focus of the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration organised by the chapter at Hussey College, Warri, where stakeholders, communication professionals 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, stressed the need for deliberate actions to empower women and create inclusive opportunities across sectors.

Dr. Jeroh noted that empowering women produces far-reaching benefits for families, communities and nations, emphasising that women remain critical contributors to social and economic development.

He described advocacy as the act of supporting and defending causes in order to influence policies and drive positive social change. According to him, advocacy often involves strategic engagement such as awareness campaigns, research and policy dialogue aimed at shaping decisions within government, institutions and communities.
Speaking further, the lecturer explained that gender inclusion involves ensuring that individuals have equal rights, opportunities and access to resources regardless of gender. He added that inclusive systems must address barriers that limit women’s participation in leadership, employment and decision-making processes.

Dr. Jeroh also highlighted the importance of continuous professional development, urging practitioners to improve their competence through training, mentorship and professional certifications. He stressed that ethical communication, anchored on honesty, transparency, respect and accountability remains essential in strengthening trust and credibility within the public relations profession.

In his remarks at the event, the Chairman of the Delta State Chapter of NIPR, Mr. Godfrey C. Osakwe, fnipr, said the celebration provided an opportunity to recognise the immense contributions of women to the growth of the public relations profession and society at large.

“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,” he said.

Osakwe 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.

He paid tribute to women whose dedication and professionalism continue to shape a better society, noting that inclusive leadership remains vital 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 said.

The NIPR chairman further 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 had noted that the NIPR, established in 1963 and chartered by law to regulate public relations practice in Nigeria, plays a crucial role in promoting professional standards, training practitioners and enforcing ethical conduct within the industry.

The educationist and Chartered Human Resource Consultant urged the Delta State chapter to leverage its human capital and communication platforms, particularly social media, to strengthen advocacy for gender inclusion and ethical communication while positioning the chapter as a leader in professional development.

A recipient of the NIPR award, Dr. Doris Amaka Ochei expressed deep gratitude to the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Delta State Chapter for honoring her with an Award of Excellence for philanthropic service and advocacy. She highlighted the theme “Give to Gain,” explaining that selfless giving of time, resources, and compassion leads to lasting impact and stronger communities.

Through the DAO Foundation, she has supported community development by providing clean water through solar-powered boreholes, improving school environments, empowering the less privileged, offering medical support, alleviating poverty, and rehabilitating market infrastructure.

She emphasized that true leadership is rooted in service and empathy, especially in supporting women, girls, and vulnerable communities. Dr. Ochei dedicated the award to everyone who has supported the mission and reaffirmed her commitment to continue serving humanity and uplifting lives.

In her remarks, the CEO and Founder of the EMT Foundation, Deaconess Dr. Mrs. Esther Tonlagha, who was represented by Dcns Harriet Mayuku, appreciated the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Delta State Chapter, for recognizing the foundation during the International Women’s Day celebration. She commended the institute for providing a platform that highlights the important role women play in shaping society.

Speaking on the theme “Give to Gain,” Tonlagha emphasized that true success lies not only in what people receive but also in what they give through mentorship, support and opportunities for others. She noted that the EMT Foundation continues to empower women and vulnerable groups through health awareness, education, youth development and economic empowerment programmes, encouraging women to support one another and inspiring young women to believe in their potential.

Also remarking, the Principal of Hussey College Warri, Mrs. Justina Wategire, who was represented by her Vice principal academic, Mrs. Edigbe E. Paulina, thanked NIPR for bringing the program to Hussey College Warri.

Highlight of the event was a discussion panel session, where the discussants harped on the need for women to be protected and given a place in the society, adding that their dire passion to give to the society was worth appreciating.

The event featured cash presentation to students and award presentations to Dr. Doris Amaka Ochei and Dcns (Mrs) Esther Tonlagha in recognition for their contributions to philanthropy and humanitarian services.

The event concluded with an interactive session where participants discussed strategies for advancing gender inclusion and strengthening professional standards within the communication industry.