The minister of information and national orientation, Mohammed Idris, the president of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Ike Neliaku and others have eulogised the late Frank Tamuno-Koko.

They gave the tributes at the banquet hall of Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt, where he once served as the chairman of the Board of Fellows of the Institute.

This is contained in a statement by Paulinus Nsirim, chairman of the National Planning Committee and member of council, on Friday in Abuja.

Mr Idris, represented by Mukhtar Sirajo, described late Mr Tamuno-Koko as a dedicated professional who was not just a fellow but an embodiment of wisdom and excellence.

“He provided thoughtful leadership and guidance to the younger generation of public relations practitioners.

“He played a critical role in nurturing the standard ethical foundations that continue to sustain the profession today.

“His contributions were not limited to titles or positions but were reflected in the quiet influence he exercised, those he mentored and the respect he commanded across the communication industry,” Mr Idris said.

Also, Mr Neliaku, who drew solace in the legacy left behind by the late Mr Tamuno-Koko, extolled his life of sacrifice, impact and selflessness, which helped in deepening and sustaining professionalism in the public relations industry.

“People may be sad, rightly so, but I am not. Listening to everything that has been said here, I want to believe that at 77, Tamuno-Koko fulfilled his mission on earth and needed to leave when he did.

“Instead of mourning, we should be celebrating the man whose legacy will remain with us,” he stated.

He, therefore, called on the family members of NIPR and those affected by Tamuno-Koko’s demise to remain strong and be comforted by the footsteps of honour he has left behind.

Mr Neliaku assured the institute’s support for the bereaved family.

Similarly, the head of corporate communications at Indorama Eleme Ltd, Jossy Nkwocha, in his remarks said the deceased would be remembered for always striving for excellence and how he positively influenced his career and education.

“He would be greatly missed,” he said.

The statement also noted that those who also eulogised Mr Tamuno-Koko include NIPR Vice President Emmanuel Dandaura and Eze Igbu Upata III/Nye Udu of the Upata Kingdom of Rivers, King Felix Otuwarikpo.

Also, the chairman of the Rivers Chapter of NIPR, Francis Asuko, among others, paid tributes to the late Tamuno-Koko.

(NAN)