Nigeria is set to reposition its national image on the global stage as it prepares to host the prestigious 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), a move announced at the opening ceremony of the Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) 2025 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The event, organized by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), brought together key stakeholders from government, media, and the public relations industry under the theme: “Solid Minerals: A Solid Path to Nigeria’s Sustainable Economic Recovery – The Challenge for Public Relations.”
Delivering his keynote address, NIPR President and Chairman, Dr. Ike Neliaku, said Nigeria was ready to project a new narrative to the world—one that reflects its cultural richness, economic potential, and growing global relevance.
“At WPRF 2026, the world will savor Nigeria’s magnificent splendor—from our cuisine to our creativity,” Neliaku said. “Despite safety concerns and tourism challenges, we are determined to present Nigeria as a safe, welcoming, and vibrant destination.”
Neliaku emphasized the need for strategic and proactive communication in repositioning Nigeria’s image, citing a recent international encounter where a question about Nigerian cuisine underscored broader misconceptions about the country.
“The challenges of leadership in Nigeria are partly due to ineffective communication,” he noted. “Leaders must speak clearly, responsibly, and consistently to shape perceptions.”
Momoh Leads National Reputation Drive
A major highlight of the ceremony was the inauguration of Channels Media Group CEO, John Momoh, as Chairman of the newly formed Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG) Body of Advisers. The NRMG, an NIPR initiative, is tasked with driving a coordinated strategy for rebuilding and maintaining Nigeria’s global image.
“Every negative post erodes our credibility,” Momoh said. “We need to counter that with narratives of excellence, resilience, and innovation. Let us flood our media space with what is good about Nigeria.”
Momoh also appealed for more responsible use of social media, encouraging citizens to contribute to a collective effort aimed at restoring trust and unity.
Joining Momoh on the NRMG leadership team are Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, as Vice Chairman, and Mohammed Kudu Abubakar as Secretary.
Calls for Positive Storytelling and Unity
Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, told delegates that negative headlines and stereotypes deter foreign investment and development.
“Our state is safe and peaceful. It is time to tell those stories,” she said. “Public relations professionals must help highlight our strengths and promote investment opportunities.”
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, echoed similar sentiments, urging communicators to balance constructive criticism with messages that promote national pride.
“We must speak good of our country. That’s how we build momentum for growth and development,” he said.
Reforms and Responsibility
Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, called for patience and collective responsibility in the face of ongoing economic reforms.
“Real change takes time. Government, media, and citizens all have a role to play in shaping a better Nigeria,” Oyedele said.
The week-long event also paid tribute to several late practitioners with posthumous awards, honoring their contributions to the public relations profession and the nation.
A New Narrative for a New Nigeria
Closing the event, Dr. Neliaku reaffirmed the essential role of public relations in nation-building and called on all Nigerians to take ownership of the country’s narrative.
“Our collective story is one of resilience, innovation, and hope,” he said. “Every Nigerian has a role to play in telling that story. We must reclaim our image and shape our future.”
With the 2026 World PR Forum on the horizon, Nigeria is betting on a new chapter—one written in the language of progress, unity, and global relevance.
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