The Director General of the Imo State Consumer Protection Council, Honourable Dr Mrs Obioma Okafor, emerged as the centre of recognition on Thursday 4 December 2025 as she received the prestigious Leadership Luminary Award from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Imo State Chapter. The honour was bestowed on her during the Institute’s Annual General Meeting held at Rockview Hotel, Owerri, in acknowledgement of her outstanding contributions to the socio economic advancement of Nigeria through consumer protection, public enlightenment, and community development.
Honourable Dr Okafor, widely celebrated for her proactive reforms and relentless campaigns against fake, substandard and expired products in Imo State, received the award from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy, Mrs Violet Igwe. While presenting the plaque, Mrs Igwe described her as an exceptional Amazon whose commitment to safeguarding the lives of citizens has set a new standard for responsible public service. She noted that although she had not met Okafor personally before the event, her remarkable work and visible impact speak volumes about her dedication and passion.
In her acceptance remarks, Honourable Dr Okafor expressed profound gratitude to the NIPR Imo State Chapter for deeming her worthy of the award. She assured the Institute of her continuous partnership, especially in strengthening public awareness and advancing meaningful communication that supports national development. She encouraged members to remain committed to the objectives and ethics of the communication profession in the discharge of their duties while she thank the governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma for given her such an enabling environment to revamp the council to what it is today.
She further used the opportunity to caution consumers to be vigilant during the festive season, urging them to scrutinise products before purchase and to report suspicious goods to the Council. She emphasised that collaboration between the Consumer Protection Council and the public relations community remains crucial in safeguarding citizens and promoting an informed society.
Earlier in his keynote address, the Vice Chancellor of Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University Ogboko, Professor Ikechukwu Dozie, spoke on the theme “Managing National Reputation in a Digital Era: The Role of Public Relations.” He underscored the evolving demands of the digital age and the need for professionals to deploy ethical and strategic communication in enhancing Nigeria’s global image.
The ceremony, declared open by Chairman of the event, the former Governor of Imo State, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, who was ably represented, also featured the recognition of other distinguished personalities.
Among those honoured were the Chairman of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty Eze Dr E. C. Okeke; renowned cultural icon Art Paddy Obinna; former Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Rt Honourable Emeka Nduka; and the Public Relations Officer of Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Dr Nnameka Ijioma, among others.
Welcoming guests earlier, the Chairman of NIPR Imo State Chapter, Mr Ever Bezze Nwosu, commended all awardees for their contributions to professional excellence and societal development, noting that the Institute will continue to recognise individuals who uphold integrity, service, and innovation.
The event ended with applause and admiration for Honourable Dr Obioma Okafor, whose leadership continues to strengthen consumer confidence and set a benchmark for public sector accountability in Imo State.
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