A physically challenged man, Ayodele Ishola beat other top influencers to emerge winner of the prestigious People’s Choice Awards at the Lagos State Public Relations and Gala Awards.
The 2019 edition of LaPRIGA was held at the Grand Ballroom, Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos on Thursday, December 19, 2019.
LaPRIGA is the prestigious red bow-tie event that recognizes excellence and celebrates public relations practitioners and stakeholders which has evolved to become the communications industry Oscars.
According to the Chairman Lagos Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Mr. Segun Mcmedal, “LaPRIGA was instituted to celebrate excellence and professionalism in PR practice and marketing communication. We made conscious effort to raise the bar at every edition, this year being the fourth. We also celebrate our stakeholders who have been consistent in their support for public relations not only in Lagos but across the Nation.”
The main highlight of the event which attracted the crème de la crème from different sectors was the presentation of the LaPRIGA trophy to practitioners and corporate bodies carefully chosen by a Selection Panel for their contributions to the practice and growth of the profession over the years.
The most glamorous award that drew the loudest ovation on the night was the LaPRIGA Inspiring/Outstanding Professional Influencer Award, (PEOPLE’S CHOICE Award).
This award is an innovative award instituted by the chapter to celebrate commitment, dedication and professionalism in Public Relations.
It is important to note that this is the only award whose winner was determined by the people. The honoree was voted for by members and the practitioner with the highest votes wins by simple majority.
The People’s Choice award was won by Ishola Ayodele (a physically challenged PR professional).
Explaining the rationale for this special award, Vice Chairman of the Lagos nipr Mrs. Eniola Mayowa said, “The winner of this People’s Choice award is unique in many ways. One, Ayodele’s commitment to PR practice is well established.
Secondly, his consistency in contributing to the body of knowledge and dedication to expanding frontier of the profession is quite commendable. Thirdly, many of the people who voted probably haven’t met with the winner, he can be said to be ‘unknown’ but the value he brought to bear speaks volume. Lastly, when you now realize that the winner is an individual who should have reasons not to be of value but rose against limitations to be atop of his calling makes it so unique and worthy of recognition and celebration.”
Other winners included John Ehiguese, Yomi Badejo’s CMC connect, Fassy Adetokunbo Yusuf, Prof. Akinfeleye, Corporate bodies and brands like Lifebuoy, infinix
