Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, extended his congratulations to the newly elected Executive Council of the African Public Relations Association (APRA). This new leadership was chosen during the 35th APRA Annual Conference and Annual General Meeting, which took place from May 13 to 18, 2024, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
Mohammed Idris, a Fellow of the African Public Relations Association (APRA), highlighted the election’s crucial role in advancing public relations across Africa. He emphasized that this moment is pivotal for APRA, noting that the collective expertise and leadership of the newly elected Executive Council would be essential in realizing the association’s long-term vision. Idris’s acknowledgment underscores the importance of strategic leadership in propelling the public relations field forward on the continent.
In a dynamic shift for the African Public Relations Association (APRA), the newly elected Executive Council has been announced, ushering in a diverse leadership team. At the helm is Arik Karani from Kenya, who steps into the role of President, bringing his extensive experience and visionary outlook. Supporting him is Dr. Michele Mekeme from Cameroon, the newly appointed Vice President, known for her strategic acumen and dedication to advancing public relations across the continent. Rounding out this distinguished team is Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan from Nigeria, serving as Secretary-General, whose expertise in communication will be pivotal in driving APRA’s initiatives forward. This leadership trio is poised to steer APRA towards a future of innovation and growth in the realm of public relations in Africa.
Idris called on the new Executive Council to maintain and advance the reforms within APRA, emphasizing the need to broaden the democratic space by fostering active involvement from national public relations bodies across Africa. He underscored the critical importance of inclusivity and collaboration, advocating for a united effort to elevate the public relations profession throughout the continent.
The Minister urged the Executive Council to collaborate intensively with the African Union Commission and the Council of Ministers, emphasizing the critical role of public relations in governance. He highlighted that public relations should be integral to the development and execution of policies, programs, and projects, stating, “Public relations should be at the heart of policy, programs, and project implementation.” This call to action aims to ensure that effective communication and public engagement are prioritized at every stage of governance.
He also extended his congratulations to Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, the Head of Media Relations at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), on his appointment as the Secretary-General of the African Public Relations Association (APRA).
“Dr. Ibietan is a thoroughbred journalist, public relations expert, and author, who is expected to bring his enormous wealth of experience to bear on APRA positively,” Idris said
