Professionals examine evolving trends at Protocol Conference in Lagos

 Professionals examine evolving trends at  Protocol Conference in Lagos 

Professionals across the globe gathered in Lagos this week  to examine evolving trends in the discharge of protocol responsibilities .

The practitioners cutting across the spectrum in private sector and government organizations highlighted  the need to move from strict-  rules - based system to a more adaptable framework that can respond to new technologies , social pressures and unexpected global events.

The event was  put together  by Centre for Protocol Professional Development (CPPD), coordinated by Mr Fortune Idu at the NIGAV Centre at the Lagos International Airport , provided another opportunity for players in the space to re- examine their roles in handling seamless events and ceremony planning .

Speaking during the opening ceremony , convener of the International Protocol Officers Conference (IPOC), Africa, Mr Fortune  Idu said protocol serves as a major tool for organizing society by holding the structures to the agreed rules and required standards.

Idu said the IPOC conference has utilized the platform to highlight the critical roles of protocol services, providing participants with relevant information on various aspects , including international, diplomatic ,State and corporate as well as its significance in international affairs, State and corporate environment.

Idu noted said Protocol Officers must utilize the conference to equip themselves with the evolving skills needed to manage crisis effectively.

He said :" Protocol is often challenging given the continuously evolving international affairs , ranging from geopolitics, migration, war and crisis, technological shifts, environmental issues and human factors. 

"The effect of this trend on protocol is intensely felt in areas such as event planning , travel facilitation , personnel security and resource and safety management.

" As protocol officers, we must demonstrate capacity for delivering events, and travel facilitation services to organizations , be responsive to trends and develop both strategic and tactical plans to manage any sudden disruptions that may arise."

He said the goal of protocol  has expanded beyond just smooth logistics, but spreading into strategically positioning events to achieve broader objectives  related to social impact, economic development and public perception.

Idu noted:" The increasing global interconnected means protocol must consider a wider range of cultural norms and expectations, especially in international events."

There were paper presentations  from  Professor Olufunsho Suraj and renowned TV personality,   Mr Patrick Doyle.

In his paper , Mr Moses Ekenimoh explored the dynamics of Protocol Management, highlighting the global perspectives , evolving trends and challenges.

He offered practical lessons on current trends in the work environment, officialdom and other developments.

Speaking on the topic :" Protocol & Building The Bridge of International Diplomacy ", Ekenimoh said professionals in the business of protocol must build trust, deepen collaboration and leverage networking to achieve their desired objectives.

In a panel session, protocol professionals examined the consequences of unruly passenger behaviour, role - playing how their functions are discharged , identified prevailing challenges and offered practical solutions.