MAAUN becomes First Northern Varsity to Secure NIPR Corporate Membership–NIPR

Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN) has been recognized as the first university in northern Nigeria to become a corporate member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

The disclosure was made by Prof. Sule Yau Sule, a Council Member of the NIPR, during the induction ceremony of 50 Mass Communication students into the association.

Prof. Sule, who also serves as the Chairman of the Board of Directors at Image Merchants Promotion (MPR), revealed that MAAUN has the highest student membership of the institute in the country.

He noted that acquiring NIPR membership provides students with industry recognition, professional credibility, and valuable networking opportunities that are essential for career progression.

The event, held on Thursday at the school of Social and Management Sciences, emphasized the importance of professional membership in NIPR, particularly for students pursuing careers in communication, journalism, and public relations.

The initiative was part of an effort to provide students with access to mentorship, specialized training programs, workshops, and career development opportunities, thereby equipping them with a competitive advantage in the job market.

In his presentation, Malam Yushau A. Shuaib, Publisher of PR Nigeria explained the intersection between NIPR and social media, illustrating how public relations serves as a strategic tool for shaping national discourse, managing public perception, and fostering transparency.

Mal. Shuaib, a veteran PR guru, noted that when public relations strategies are effectively integrated with social media, they can be instrumental in countering misinformation, strengthening national cohesion, and enhancing policy awareness.

While addressing the dangers of fake news, he urged students to adopt responsible digital practices by verifying information before dissemination, promoting constructive discourse, and using social media as a tool for nation building.

Earlier in his address, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Israr, President of MAAUN, highlighted the institutional benefits of partnering with regulatory bodies such as NIPR.

He encouraged students to actively engage in NIPR activities, build professional connections, and apply their knowledge to address societal challenges and promote national unity.

Also speaking, the Head of Career Guidance, Training and Placement Unit, Engr. Bashir Garba, appealed to NIPR members to introduce programs that benefit students and enhance their academic and professional development.

The session concluded with a question-and-answer session, allowing students to engage directly with the speakers, seek clarifications, and gain deeper insights into contemporary public relations strategies.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Habib Awais Abubakar, VP Administration, expressed appreciation to the guest speakers for their invaluable contributions and commended the university for its unwavering commitment to professional development.

Highlights of the event included the awards of corporate membership certificate to the university as well certificates of attendance to the students.