Universities and other tertiary institutions across Nigeria have been urged to begin preparations for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), as the country gets set to become the first in West Africa to host public relations professionals from more than 100 countries.
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).
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Dr Neliaku said hosting the global forum offers Nigeria a unique opportunity to demonstrate professional excellence on an international stage, while showcasing the nation’s growing expertise 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,”
Chairman of PR Professionals in Tertiary Institutions, Mr Peter Oyeneye, encouraged delegates to make use of the conference to network and exchange innovative ideas.
He referenced the late Professor Dora Akunyili as a symbol of how effective public relations can build national credibility and public trust.
A lecturer at BUK’s Department of Mass Communication, Dr Muhammad Auwal Haruna, explained that the conference theme was selected in response to the institutional and existential challenges confronting Nigerian tertiary institutions.
He urged communicators to amplify positive narratives that promote national unity and counter misinformation about the quality of education in the country.
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He also stressed the critical role of young people and social media in shaping Nigeria’s image globally.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of BUK, Professor Haruna Musa, described the conference as timely and relevant.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Aliyu Mu’azu, he highlighted the university’s rising performance in global rankings, attributing the progress to sustained investment in communication and visibility.
He further emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between public relations practitioners and tertiary institutions to enhance institutional reputation and public engagement.