Nigeria has secured the hosting rights for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, has announced.
Dr. Neliaku disclosed this during his address at the Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW 2025) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The NIPR President previously shared the hosting plan with the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. This happened during a courtesy visit in March 2025. The Minister then pledged government’s support for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum.
Neliaku noted that Nigeria is a nation in transition. He expressed concern about the country’s image both locally and internationally.
“I went to Venice to defend Nigeria’s bid to host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum – and we won,” Neliaku said.
“This is a major milestone. The forum first came to Africa in 2007, when it was hosted by South Africa. Thanks to the support of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Nigeria was able to secure the hosting rights for the next edition.”
Global PR Leaders to Gather in Nigeria for Landmark Event
The NIPR President announced that representatives from 126 member countries will converge on Nigeria for the event. These countries are part of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management.
“Every country in Africa is a gateway,” he said, “but Nigeria is the destination. We have everything it takes to be the continent’s top host and a global hub for communication and innovation.”
Speaking on leadership and communication, Neliaku emphasized the importance of effective public engagement.
“Good leaders must also be good communicators,” he said. “Too often, leaders assume they know what the people want – and fail to lead effectively because they haven’t done their homework.”
The 2026 forum will be the first time Nigeria and the entire West African region host the World Public Relations Forum.
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