Bashir Adamu Chedi: A PR Legend, Fearless Leader, Mentor Par Excellence.

Late Fellow Malam Bashir Adamu Chedi was a legendary figure in Public Relations and an exemplary mentor who left an indelible mark on the profession. As Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Kaduna State Chapter in 2019, he played a pivotal role in shaping my professional journey. His endorsement led to my induction as an Associate Member of NIPR on August 29, 2019.

Fellow Chedi was more than just a mentor; he was a beacon of hope, a fatherly figure, and a rallying point for young professionals like myself. I vividly recall his guidance during a chapter meeting, where he advised me to retract a statement, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining professionalism and decorum. His concerns about leadership challenges within the chapter, particularly when an Exco member hindered activities for months, showcased his dedication to the NIPR Kaduna Chapter's growth and success.

His impact extended beyond the chapter, as I had the opportunity to attend the NIPR Abuja AGM, which elected Ike Neliaku, PhD, as President and Chairman of the Council. Fellow Chedi's presence was felt, as he contested for a Council Member position, further solidifying his influence in the profession.

Late Fellow Bashir was a unifying figure who brought people together, which is why many others and I regarded him as a leader in the Kaduna Chapter of the NIPR.

He was a crusader of truth and justice. His commitment to these values earned him respect and admiration.

His demise on Monday, 25th August 2025, indeed marked the end of an era, just as James Swam, Chapter Secretary (2016–2021) during Late Fellow Bashir's tenure as Chairman, rightly captured in his tribute. No doubt, his demise has created a big vacuum, and the burden to fill this vacuum lies on the chapter’s young and vibrant fellows: Fellow Abdulazeez Abdullahi and Fellow Musa Bashir.

While Fellow Bakori and Auwal are esteemed professionals, their current circumstances may not permit them to take on leadership roles. However, I believe Fellow Musa Bashir and Fellow Abdulazeez Abdullahi possess the energy, innovative ideas, and decorum to lead the chapter forward.

My sincere condolences go to his immediate family, the President and Chairman of the Council of NIPR, Ike Neliaku, PhD, all the Council members, Fellows’ Conclave, NIPR Kaduna Chapter, in particular the Chairman, Mal. Haroun Malami, and most importantly the Vice Chairman, Mal. Mohammed Abdullahi.

May his legacy continue to inspire and guide future generations of PR professionals, and may Allah forgive Late Fellow Bashir Adamu Chedi's shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus. Ameen.

Sharifudeen Ibrahim Muhammad (Dan Jarida), MNIPR, MICA, MNUJ, ANIM, AIIPS, writes from Kaduna Chapter of NIPR