Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has called on Public Relations professionals to build a foundation of truth, transparency and accountability in the discharge of their duties.

The Governor who made the call at the ongoing Rivers Public Relations week in Port Harcourt, called on the Public Relations experts to build credibility for progressive development.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara who was represented by the Head of Rivers State Civil Service, Dr. Iyingi Brown said public relations professionals have a role to play in shaping perception and reinforcing trust between government and the governed.

He urged them to resist the temptation of distorting facts which could lead to disunity.

The Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, represented by Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Seledi Thompson-Wakama said stakeholder engagement was important in ensuring that an organization builds public trust and meets the needs of its public.

The Chairman of the Occasion, the King of Evo Kingdom, His Majesty Eze Leslie Eke said when information is truthful, it brings about a mutual synergy that produces positive development.

Earlier in his remarks, the Rivers State Chapter Chairman of NIPR, Reverend Francis Asuk explained that the recent political tensions and agitations have affected the reputation of Rivers State.

In this regard, he said the program was geared towards x-raying how effective communication could restore confidence, bridge divides and shape a progressive state.

The event which brought together public relations professionals had a panel of discussion centered on stakeholders engagement and building public trust in a challenging economy.