ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his congratulations to the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) following its emergence as the "Global Public Relations Association of the Year" at the 2025 World Public Relations and Communication Awards. The prestigious honor was announced during a ceremony held in Lisbon, Portugal, on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
The NIPR was adjudged the best in the world following a rigorous and highly competitive selection process involving 89 entries from 19 countries. The institute edged out top contenders, including the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), to clinch the top prize.
A Landmark Achievement for Nigeria
In a statement issued on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the recognition as a "resounding endorsement of Nigeria’s growing influence and professionalism within the global strategic communications ecosystem."
The President commended the leadership of the NIPR, particularly its President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Ike Neliaku, and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris. He noted that the award reflects the transformative reforms and international engagement initiatives championed by the institute over the past year.
Setting Global Benchmarks
The award recognizes the NIPR's excellence in several key areas, including:
• Combating Quackery: Innovative stakeholder engagement strategies to sanitize the PR profession in Nigeria.
• Institutional Growth: The induction of over 2,000 new members, including high-ranking military officers and legal professionals, to mainstream professional communication.
• National Reputation Management: Setting global benchmarks in ethical communication and public trust-building.
Looking Ahead: WPRF 2026
This global victory arrives as Nigeria prepares to host the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) 2026 in Abuja this coming November. The event is expected to attract thousands of communication professionals from across the globe, further cementing Nigeria’s role as a hub for strategic dialogue and professional excellence.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting institutions that elevate Nigeria’s global image and urged the NIPR to maintain its drive for innovation and integrity.
Reader Question:
How significant is this global recognition for Nigeria’s international diplomacy efforts and the overall perception of the country's professional landscape?
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