By Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot
Mr. Raphael Edem is a Protocol expert and Senior Special Assistant to the Akwa Ibom State Governor on Brand Management and Marketing. He is a strong voice in event coordination and has held the stage at numerous events statewide and nationally.
At the NUJ Leadership Summit yesterday, he called for greater adherence to established protocol standards, warning that the improper use of official portraits, national symbols and ceremonial procedures undermines the dignity and credibility of public institutions.
Delivering a lecture on “Proper Protocol Practices” during the summit organised to mark the first anniversary of the Comrade Nsibiet John-led administration, the United States-trained protocol officer drew attention to common errors in the display of official portraits. He explained that the official portrait of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces features two distinct flags behind the President—the Nigerian National Flag and the flag of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. He clarified that the Coat of Arms should not be superimposed on the National Flag, stressing that there is no officially recognised national symbol that combines both emblems in a single image.
Edem also identified punctuality, proper appearance and respect for order of precedence as essential pillars of effective protocol. He urged Nigerians, particularly public officers, to cultivate the habit of arriving early for official engagements, describing punctuality as a demonstration of respect for organisers, guests and the value of time. He further advised participants at formal functions to dress appropriately and avoid overly casual appearances, including the use of short-sleeved shirts where the nature and status of an event demand formal attire.
On the conduct of official ceremonies, the protocol expert explained that the Nigerian National Anthem may be rendered at any formal event, whether or not government officials are in attendance. He added that where both the National Anthem and the Akwa Ibom State Anthem are to be performed, the National Anthem must take precedence, while one stanza of the National Anthem is sufficient for such occasions. Edem also charged masters of ceremonies to understand and apply the approved order of precedence in introducing and recognising dignitaries, noting that proper recognition reflects institutional respect and prevents avoidable breaches of protocol.
Turning his attention to the media profession, Edem described journalists as knowledge-driven professionals whose responsibilities demand competence across diverse fields. He urged media practitioners to continually broaden their knowledge, update their professional skills and uphold the highest ethical standards in the discharge of their duties. His presentation reinforced the broader objective of the NUJ Leadership Summit: equipping media leaders with the knowledge, discipline and professional values required to strengthen leadership, improve institutional conduct and advance responsible journalism.
• Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot is a member of the Federated Chapel of the NUJ, AKS Council
