Smooth Transition: NIPR Breaks New Ground with Successful Electronic Council Elections

By Abaji Fatima Agnes 

In a significant leap towards modernization and inclusivity, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) successfully conducted its Council elections electronically, marking a milestone in the Institute’s history. The e-voting exercise, which took place over a secured digital platform, was praised by members and observers for its transparency, efficiency, and wide reach.

For the first time, eligible NIPR members across board were able to vote even remotely, signaling the Institute’s commitment to democratic values and digital innovation. The election, held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Ceedapeg hotel's auditorium in Uyo Akwa Ibom State, during the Nigerian Public Relations Week (NPRW) ushered in a new Council (2025-2027) expected to shape the future of public relations practice in Nigeria.

The electronic voting process was powered by a user-friendly portal designed to ensure accessibility and security. From voter authentication to ballot casting and result collation, the system was transparent and tamper-proof. According to the Electoral Committee Chairperson, Prof. Uche Mbanaso, (a cybersecurity expert) the digital platform was audited by an independent IT firm to guarantee fairness.

"This is a new dawn for the NIPR. We have demonstrated that professional bodies in Nigeria are transforming their operational procedures and can embrace technology for greater productivity and efficiency without compromising integrity," Prof Mbanaso said.

The road to the e-voting began late 2024, when the Institute’s leadership resolved to leverage technological innovations to address long-standing concerns over voter turnout, representation, and logistics. The decision was widely applauded by members, many of whom had previously found it difficult to participate in physical elections due to distance, long hours of manual voting or professional commitments.

"I was able to vote from my hotel room seamlessly in Uyo without having to be physically present in the auditorium" said Mrs. Rhoda Dandaura a  PR professional. "It made me feel more involved in the Institute’s affairs." Another voter, Mr. Osondu Ohaeri, a Fellow of the Institute commended the process and applauded the committee for its commitment and transparency through the whole process. "It is a step worthy of emulation as this has eased the stress of physical voting".

In total, 738 certified members were accredited while 518 participated in the electronic voting exercise. 

Voting commenced by 1:00pm, then ended by 4:00pm, and results collated, analyzed and released just 30 minutes later, with a detailed report released shortly after closing of voting.

This was however not without few hiccups. Major challenge encountered was inability of some voters to effectively use their smartphone to vote due to the poor internet access. Inspite of this, the election went on smoothly as the Institute immediately provided alternative Internet source to enable members vote. 

The newly elected Council, comprising experienced practitioners, reflects NIPR’s growing diversity and ambition. Nominations into the two key positions of the President and Vice President, were made at the Council conclave immediately after the announcement of winners. Just like the American system, NIPR President is elected through Electoral College. 

Dr. Ike Neliaku and Prof Emmanuel Dandaura were therefore through voice votes re-elected as President/Chairman of Governing Council and Vice President/Vice Chairman of Governing Council respectively, indicating a renewed interest in governance among members.

A former President of the Institute Mallam Mukhtar Sirajo, commended the Electoral Committee and the IT support team for what he described as a "seamless, credible, and historic exercise." He expressed confidence that the new Council would consolidate the gains made during the last dispensation.

Public Relations experts across the country have hailed the success of the electronic elections as a model for other professional associations. Many believe that NIPR’s bold step could inspire similar innovations across other institutions seeking to deepen engagement and accountability.

As the dust settles, attention now turns to the newly elected Council and the expectations ahead. With a strong mandate from a broad base of members, the incoming leadership is expected to champion professionalism, ethics, and inclusivity—hallmarks of the NIPR vision.

Indeed, the 2025 e-voting is not just about who won or lost—it is about how the process has redefined participation and trust in the system. For the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, it is not just a transition of leadership, but a triumph of technology, transparency, and transformation.

LIST OF COUNCIL MEMBERS:

1. DR IKE NELIAKU (518) 

2. PROF EMMANUEL DANDAURA (468) 

3. ESSIEN INI EMEMOBONG (452) 

4. NWANKWO COMFORT OBOT(442) 

5. SAJOH AHMED IBRAHIM (440) 

6. BADEJO OLUBUNMI (439) 

7. NSIRIM PAULINUS (437) 

8. OLAJIDE OLUSEGUN MC MEDAL(432) 

9. ABDULBAQI SAUDAT SALAH (424) 

10. UKA OGOEGBUNEM PATRICK (422) 

11. ADARAMOLA TEMITOPE(420) 

12. AGBEJULE AKINOLA ADEDOTUN(417) 

13. KOBI KABIR ALI(416) 

14. CHEDI BASHIR ADAMS (413) 

15. LWAHAS SARAH BENJAMIN (413) 

16. PROF OMENUGHA KATE AZUKA (411) 

17. DR WALE OYEKANMI(384)