Press & Protocol

Protocol, Press, and Public Relations Unit – National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC)

Head of Unit: Fatima Bappare

Introduction:

The Protocol, Press, and Public Relations Unit operates under the direct supervision of the Executive Secretary and plays a crucial role in managing the Commission’s image, communications, and media engagement. The unit oversees publicity, publications, and new media, ensuring the dissemination of accurate and timely information about the Commission’s activities.

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Vision:

To establish a result-oriented and media-friendly Public Relations Unit that fosters positive engagement with stakeholders while enhancing the Commission’s public image in line with its objectives.

Mission:

To cultivate sustainable and mutually beneficial relationships between NSSEC, the media, and the general public through effective service delivery and strategic communication.

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Core Mandate:

The unit focuses on three key areas:

1. Publicity:

Collates, processes, and disseminates information on NSSEC’s activities to the public.

Manages advertising for NSSEC programs beyond direct media relations.

Oversees corporate image management and public perception of the Commission.

Maintains strong media relations to ensure balanced coverage.

2. Publications:

Plans and executes nationwide circulation of internal publications.

Maintains a mini-library and archives for internal and external reference materials.

Acts as the editorial hub for NSSEC’s publications.

Coordinates and oversees publications from NSSEC’s state offices.

3. New Media:

Manages NSSEC’s digital presence on social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, Email, etc.).

Utilizes computer-generated tools for communication with stakeholders.

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Functions of the Unit:

Press and Public Relations:

Ensures positive projection of the Executive Secretary and the Commission to the public and media.

Monitors media reports, radio/TV broadcasts, and public opinions about NSSEC’s policies and programs.

Compiles daily press clippings on NSSEC’s coverage in newspapers, maintaining a data bank of media content.

Publicizes NSSEC’s programs through feature articles, documentaries, in-house journals, posters, and brochures.

Conducts press briefings, press conferences, and media relations activities to enhance public awareness.

Manages advertising placements, announcements, and jingles across media platforms.

Oversees the purchase and circulation of newspapers for the Executive Secretary and Heads of Departments.

Organizes familiarization tours to major media houses to strengthen relationships and enhance NSSEC’s public image.

Ensures comprehensive media coverage of the Commission’s official tours and events.

Manages portraiture and official documentation of the Executive Secretary.

Handles video coverage, photography, and album production for NSSEC events.

Issues press rejoinders and official statements in response to negative media reports.

Installs and maintains complaints, suggestion, and photo-news boxes for public engagement.

Prepares the unit’s annual budget and strategic plans.

Attends meetings and carries out additional tasks as assigned by the Executive Secretary.

Protocol Services:

Plans and coordinates all official and local travels for NSSEC executives, directors, and staff.

Handles air ticket reservations for both domestic and international travel.

Facilitates Note Verbale processing with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for international travel.

Manages the issuance of official passports for NSSEC personnel.

Arranges transportation and accommodation for Board Members during official engagements.

Organizes official receptions and catering services for NSSEC executives and dignitaries.

Oversees visa processing, health documentation (Yellow Fever cards), and currency exchange for international travel.

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Conclusion:

The Protocol, Press, and Public Relations Unit is integral to NSSEC’s operations, ensuring transparent communication, efficient media relations, and seamless protocol management. Through strategic engagement with stakeholders, the unit safeguards and enhances the Commission’s reputation, supporting its mission to strengthen senior secondary education in Nigeria.