Beyond Publicity: NIPR Challenges New Members to Rebuild Nigeria’s Image
In an era where perception often shapes reality and trust has become one of society’s most valuable currencies, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) is looking to a new generation of professionals to redefine Nigeria’s story.
The Institute on Friday inducted 415 new members during its Second Quarter Induction Ceremony for 2026 in Abuja, marking the 17th induction exercise conducted since the current Governing Council assumed office in August 2023. More than a ceremonial admission into the profession, the event became a call to action for the country’s newest public relations practitioners to become ambassadors of hope, integrity and national renewal.
Addressing the inductees, the President and Chairman of Council of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, challenged them to reject narratives that diminish Nigeria’s image and instead champion the country’s strengths despite its challenges.
“We must continue to believe in ourselves, feel great about our country, act great and be proud of who we are; because we are indeed a great people with a great nation. We must vehemently reject and remove their signpost of evil hung about our neck.
“Borrowing the University of Ilorin mantra, I would say that, “Nigeria is greater by far”. I am not saying that we don’t have challenges. We do! But our challenges are not worse than their, they are only better in hiding theirs and pretending to be who they’re not”, he stated.
His message reflected a broader vision for public relations as a profession that extends far beyond image-making. According to him, modern public relations practitioners must become trusted advisers, consensus builders and leaders capable of influencing society through credibility rather than publicity.
He emphasised that Public Relations is not just about publicity, protocol or packaging, nor is it merely about media relations, but leadership through influence, understanding, trust, and engagement.
“Throughout history, great leaders have succeeded not because they possessed the greatest power, but because they earned greatest respect and trust. However, we are now transiting from the era of great leadership, to the era of exceptional leadership. Public Relations professional must be part of the vanguards of that movement.
“Distinguished guests and colleagues, trust is the currency of leadership, and Public Relations is the discipline that builds, sustains, and protects that trust. This is why I premised my speech on the 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer.
“Today, Nigeria is in dire need of leadership that can unite our peoples, harness our diverse cultures, and promote our various interests towards a consensus around national consciousness, for peace, security and development”, he noted.
The emphasis on trust resonated with other speakers, who noted that the profession now carries even greater responsibility in a rapidly evolving information ecosystem.
Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Mal. Jibrin Baba Ndace, observed that the speed with which information circulates today makes responsible communication indispensable.
While underlining that communication plays a vital role in shaping perception and building trust, he urged the new practitioners to always uphold the value of integrity, truth and professionalism in their practice.
“As communication practitioners, you have a responsibility of not only representing your organisation but also to contribute positively to Nigeria’s image and reputation”, Ndace noted.
Adding the perspective of the media, President of the Conference of African Journalists, Dr. Chris Isiguzo, highlighted the growing partnership between journalism and public relations in defending truth amid rising misinformation and public scepticism.
He said the increasing spread of fake news and disinformation has made ethical communication more important than ever.
“The public relations profession and journalism are natural partners in the pursuit of truth, accountability and societal progress. While we journalists inform and educate the public, public relations professionals facilitate understanding, foster dialogue and build bridges between institutions and people they serve”, he noted.
For the newly inducted members, the ceremony represented both professional recognition and the beginning of a larger responsibility. Several inductees expressed delight at joining the Institute as certified practitioners, pledging to contribute their quota towards projecting Nigeria’s image positively both at home and on the global stage.
As Nigeria grapples with complex economic, political and social realities, the message from the ceremony was unmistakable: the future of public relations lies not merely in managing reputations, but in building trust, promoting ethical leadership and helping to tell a more balanced and authentic Nigerian story.
