Nigeria’s Information Minister Calls on PR Professionals to Rebrand Nation’s Image
Minister Idris Urges NIPR to Support Government’s Economic Reforms
The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has called on public relations professionals in Nigeria to actively participate in ongoing government efforts to enhance the nation’s reputation and attract foreign investments.
Nigerian Public Relations Week 2025 Highlights
Minister Idris made this appeal during the opening ceremony of the Nigerian Public Relations Week 2025 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The event, themed “Harnessing Public Relations for Nigerian Economic Relations”, brought together key stakeholders in the PR industry.
The minister highlighted the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing its role in driving economic recovery. He announced a significant N1.5 trillion allocation to revitalize the Bank of Agriculture within the administration’s first two years.
“I urge public relations professionals to key into ongoing efforts and reforms by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to rebrand the nation’s reputation and attract investors into the country,” Minister Idris stated.
NIPR President Stresses Communication Importance
Dr. Ike Neliaku, President and Chairman-in-Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), identified ineffective communication as a major leadership challenge in Nigeria. He emphasized the power of collaborative efforts in nation-building.
“Lack of effective communication is a major problem of leadership in Nigeria. We can build a prosperous Nigeria, together, if we work collaboratively,” Dr. Neliaku remarked.
The NIPR president also announced Nigeria’s selection to host the prestigious 2026 World Public Relations Forum, which will gather PR practitioners globally.
Akwa Ibom Government Supports PR Initiatives
Representing Governor Umo Eno, Deputy Governor Sen. Akon Eyakenyi underscored the critical role of public relations in economic development, stating: “I believe public relations practitioners can work collaboratively with the larger media to market our nation.”
Event Highlights and Recognitions
The ceremony featured posthumous awards to three distinguished Nigerians, including the late Dr. Uduak Obot, former LOC Chairman of NPRW25, honoring their contributions to Nigeria’s reputation management.
Additionally, the event saw the inauguration of the Nigeria Reputation Management Group’s advisory body, with notable appointments including:
- Dr. John Momoh as Chairman
- Muhammed Kudu Abubakar as Inaugural Secretary
- Bashiru Adeniyi, CGC, as Vice Chairman