ACPPN urges protocol overhaul to boost service delivery

ACPPN urges protocol overhaul to boost service delivery

... Mandates tech training for members

The Association of Certified Protocol Practitioners in Nigeria (ACPPN) has called for a comprehensive overhaul of protocol practice, describing it as a critical infrastructure for effective service delivery.

The association made this call during its Annual Congress held at The Civic Centre, Lagos, with the theme: “Protocol Practice as a Catalyst for Effective Service Delivery in Nigeria: Advancing Excellence Across Public Administration, Corporate Institutions, Diplomacy, and Technology.”

The congress brought together professionals, policymakers, and key stakeholders to chart a new direction for the protocol profession in Nigeria.

In a communiqué signed by the National Vice President and Chairman of the Communiqué Committee, Friday Ben, delegates declared that protocol has evolved beyond its traditional role.

“Modern protocol is the administrative oil that reduces friction in governance and business.

“Integrating technology and artificial intelligence is no longer optional; it is a mandatory evolution for today’s practitioner,” the communiqué stated.

The congress identified four priority areas for reform. In the public sector, it urged the adoption of standardized procedures to reduce bureaucracy, accelerate processes, and improve transparency.

Corporate institutions were advised to leverage sound protocol practices to build trust, protect reputation, and attract investment.

It also emphasised the need to maintain excellence in diplomatic protocol to strengthen Nigeria’s global image and foreign relations.

On technology, practitioners were encouraged to embrace artificial intelligence for routine tasks while preserving the human touch, noting that empathy, intuition, and cultural nuance remain indispensable.

To raise professional standards, ACPPN announced compulsory annual training for all members, both local and international. A specialised training programme has been scheduled for October 2026, with invitations to be extended to government agencies and private organisations.

The association also unveiled a new post-congress registration fee of N100,000 and directed prospective members to its forthcoming digital platform for enrollment.

“Protocol is not a barrier between people; it is the bridge that connects intentions to successful outcomes.

“By reforming our practices and embracing technology, Nigeria can become a beacon of administrative and diplomatic excellence,” the communiqué added.

ACPPN Executive President, Inkinbor Michael, called on organisations to invest more in protocol officers.

“Protocol is service delivery. Train your protocol personnel and you indirectly grow your business. Practitioners now drive business development, not just events,” he said.

Executive Vice Chairman of Poise Nigeria, Mavi Sokia Isibo, stressed the need for a cultural shift.

“We need to move from privilege to accountability, and from authority to responsibility.

“Consequences must follow every breach of protocol, regardless of age, position, or status. Make one example, and others will comply,” she said.

Ambassador Tunde Sodipo, who represented the keynote speaker, Major General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd), highlighted challenges such as poor implementation and low regard for the profession.

“The protocol officer alone cannot deliver effective services. There must be broader sensitisation to ensure compliance,” he noted, adding that raising awareness among citizens and leaders is key to achieving order and stability.

Ikechi Uko, organiser of the Akwaaba African Travel Market and a guest panelist, criticised the influence of elitism on protocol practice.

“In Nigeria, protocol often bows to power and elitism. It should be the other way around. ‘Do you know who I am?’ should not override established rules,” he said.

He added, “Protocol is about order built on clarity, consistency, and accountability. If we get it right, we will see improved service delivery in banks, airports, and public institutions. This is a blueprint for a functional society.”

Also speaking, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr Henry Agbebire, said that the agency remains committed to delivering high-level protocol services to travellers and airport users.

He emphasised that collaboration among stakeholders is essential to improving service delivery across Nigeria’s airports.

ACPPN concluded the congress by emphasising its position as a leading platform for protocol excellence in Nigeria, pledging to drive reforms that translate intention into measurable results.