The Managing Director of MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited (MEDL), Dr. Ernest Mupwaya, has lamented low public confidence in Nigeria’s electricity sector.
He attributed the development to lack of transparency, inconsistent policy communication, and limited stakeholder engagement, creating fertile ground for rumours and misinformation.
He spoke at the monthly meeting of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Enugu State Chapter, hosted by MEDL at its corporate headquarters in Enugu
According to him, the Electricity Act 2023 represents one of the most transformational reforms since privatization, decentralizing regulatory power and empowering states to develop their own electricity markets and authorities.
Emphasizing that strategic communication is no longer optional in the electricity sector, he said it’s now critical instrument for governance, reform, and national development.
He said there wss urgent need for transparent, consistent, and proactive communication to rebuild public trust amid multiple sectoral and national crises.
“The stakes are high. Strategic communication and public trust are essential pillars for both state and national development. As professionals, I urge you to reflect on the role of communication in driving these reforms. Mupwaya said.
In a lecture delivered by Prof. Silba Uzochukwu, he reinforced that effective public relations is reciprocal, evidence-based, and rooted in accountability.
He warned that reputational crises often arise from internal weaknesses such as poor leadership, inconsistent service delivery, and weak organisational communication culture.
“Organisations must ensure that their vision, mission, and core values are not only articulated but actively lived and verifiable,” he said.
Uzochukwu emphasized the need for structured crisis communication plans, trained spokespersons, and collaboration between government, industry, and PR professionals to safeguard institutional credibility.
The Chairman of NIPR Enugu State Chapter, Dr. Faustinus Ilo, said recurring economic, security, and political challenges, combined with misinformation, had undermined institutional credibility nationwide.
He reiterated NIPR’s call for government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to ensure that only certified public relations professionals manage public communication functions to eliminate quackery and safeguard public trust.
“Reputation management is not just a corporate function; it is a national responsibility,” Ilo said.
