NIPR Urges New Inductees to Promote Positive National Narrative

The President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, has called on newly inducted members to reject pessimistic portrayals of Nigeria and instead serve as ambassadors for national unity and patriotism.

Addressing 415 new inductees at a ceremony in Abuja on Friday, Neliaku emphasized the responsibility of public relations practitioners to foster trust and uphold ethical communication. He argued that professionals in the field have a duty to project a constructive image of the country rather than fueling narratives that undermine national progress.

Citing data from the 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer, Neliaku pointed to Nigeria’s global trust index ranking of sixth—placing the country ahead of several major economies including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany. He asserted that such figures directly refute claims that Nigeria is a failing state, urging the new members to counter misinformation with facts.

“Instead of being purveyors of destructive and hopeless narratives about our country, we should become messengers of hope, advocates of unity, ambassadors of patriotism, and carriers of peace,” Neliaku stated.

The event also featured contributions from other media and communications leaders, including the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace, and the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council, Dili Ezughah. These speakers collectively underscored the necessity for continuous learning, integrity, and accountability in the practice of public relations.

The induction serves as a call to action for the new members, who are expected to play a key role in upcoming national and international communications events, including the forthcoming World Public Relations Forum and the 37th African Public Relations Association Conference.