NIPR Charts Course for Future with Re-elected Leadership and Focus on National Development
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the public relations profession and contributing to national development with the re-election of Dr. Ike Neliaku as President and Chairman of the Council. Dr. Neliaku, representing the FCT Chapter, will serve another two-year term, joined by Vice President Prof. Emmanuel S. Daudara from the Nasarawa Chapter and a newly constituted executive council.
The re-election took place during the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM), a cornerstone event of the annual Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) 2025, held in the vibrant city of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Tagged ‘Uyo 2025,’ the week-long gathering brought together PR professionals from across the nation to discuss critical issues and chart a strategic path forward for the institute.
A significant highlight of the AGM was the seamless and highly praised e-voting process, which saw 17 members elected to the council. This digital approach not only demonstrated the NIPR’s embrace of modern technology but also served as a credible proof-of-concept for the viability of e-voting in Nigeria. Among the newly elected council members are prominent figures such as former Lagos Chapter Chairman Olusegun McMedal and the current Chairman, Comfort Nwankwo, both of whom will bring their extensive experience to the institute’s leadership.
Other notable individuals joining the council include Mr. Akin Agbejule (Niger), Mrs. Olubunmi Adedoyin Badejo (FCT), Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha (Anambra), Mallam Bashir Adamu Chedi, and Dr. Saudat Salah Abdubaqi (Kwara).
The diverse geographical representation on the new council further includes Comrade Ini Ememobong (Akwa Ibom), Malam Kabir Ali Kobir (Bauchi), Pastor Paulinus Enyidah Nsirim (Rivers), Prof. Sarah Benjamin Lwahas (Plateau), Mr. Adaramola Temitope (Ogun State), Dr. Adewale Oladipo Oyekanmi (Osun), Chief Patrick Ogoegbunem Uka (Delta), and Sajoh Ahmed Ibrahim (Adamawa). This broad representation is expected to foster inclusivity and ensure that the NIPR’s initiatives resonate with professionals across all regions.
Under Dr. Neliaku’s leadership, the NIPR has embarked on a journey of significant reforms, aiming to elevate the standards of public relations practice in Nigeria. A testament to these efforts is Nigeria’s successful bid to host the prestigious 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), a landmark achievement that will place Nigeria at the forefront of global PR discourse.
The NPRW 2025, held at Ceedapeg Hotels, Uyo, from May 19–24, was themed “Solid Minerals: A Solid Path to Nigeria’s Sustainable Economic Recovery – The Challenge for Public Relations.” This timely theme underscored the critical role of strategic communication in leveraging Nigeria’s abundant solid mineral resources for economic diversification and sustainable growth.
The event provided a vital platform for PR professionals, policymakers, and other stakeholders to engage in robust discussions, share insights, and formulate actionable strategies to address national challenges through effective public relations. The NIPR’s renewed leadership and strategic focus are poised to drive the institute towards greater impact, both within the profession and in contributing to Nigeria’s overall development.
