Universities and other tertiary institutions across Nigeria have been encouraged to begin early preparations for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), as the nation positions itself to become the first in West Africa to host public relations professionals from over 100 countries.
The President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr Ike Neliaku, made the call during the 5th National Conference of Public Relations Professionals in Tertiary Institutions held at Bayero University, Kano (BUK).
Dr Neliaku said hosting the global event offers Nigeria a rare opportunity to demonstrate professional excellence and showcase the country’s expanding capacity in strategic communication, reputation management and institutional storytelling.
“This is an important project. Nigerian institutions must be ready to highlight their strengths and engage with international partners,” he said.
Chairman of PR Professionals in Tertiary Institutions, Mr Peter Oyeneye, urged participants to take advantage of the gathering to build networks and exchange new ideas. He cited the late Professor Dora Akunyili as a prime example of how effective public relations can strengthen national credibility and public trust.
A lecturer in BUK’s Department of Mass Communication, Dr Muhammad Auwal Haruna, explained that the theme of the conference was informed by the institutional and existential challenges confronting Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. He called on communicators to promote positive narratives that encourage national unity and counter misinformation about the quality of education in the country. He also underscored the increasing role of young people and social media in shaping Nigeria’s global image.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of BUK, Professor Haruna Musa represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Aliyu Mu’azu described the conference as both timely and relevant. He noted the university’s improving performance in global rankings, attributing the growth to sustained investment in communication and institutional visibility.
He stressed the need for deeper collaboration between public relations practitioners and tertiary institutions to strengthen institutional reputation and enhance public engagement.
