Positive developments continue to flow from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), propelled by its dynamic president, Dr. Ike Neliaku.
Since assuming office in 2023, Neliaku has approached leadership like a sprint in a marathon—rapid, strategic, and transformational. The Institute has recorded significant strides in professional education, standards enforcement, membership expansion, continental and global collaborations, and, most crucially, reputation management. Fittingly, NIPR’s reputation has enjoyed a remarkable revival.
A review of recent achievements paints the picture of a resurgent institute charting new frontiers.
Landmark Initiatives and Institutional Reforms
On July 8, 2025, NIPR and the Nasarawa State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish the Public Relations and Leadership University. Described as a milestone, the initiative is designed to produce a new generation of professionals to help build a new Nigeria. The partnership also includes the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, the African Public Relations Association (APRA), and the Leadership Advancement Foundation.
In a landmark regulatory alignment, NIPR has partnered with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to stem the tide of quackery in public communications, particularly in public sector contracts. During a courtesy visit led by NIPR Vice President Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, the Institute emphasised the legal mandate that only certified practitioners handle public relations jobs. The Director General of BPP, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, affirmed the Bureau’s commitment to professionalism, recognising NIPR as a strategic partner.
The “New Dawn” philosophy guides Neliaku’s presidency—a triad of Big Family Approach (inclusive engagement), Value-Driven Strategy (professional, reputational, and financial value), and Enterprise Outlook (innovation, recognition, and relevance). Under this framework, the NIPR has:
Elevated its global presence.
Reinvigorated dormant chapters and inactive members.
Enhanced opportunities for professional training and retooling.
Championed a unified national narrative through reputation gatekeeping.
Educational Advancements
Education remains a core element of the Institute’s current initiatives. A key highlight is the launch of the NIPR–Air Peace Prize for exceptional PR students across 12 selected universities and polytechnics nationwide. This initiative aligns with the National Universities Commission’s move to decouple mass communication disciplines and recognises public relations as a distinct academic field.
Participating institutions include:
North Central: University of Jos; Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
North-East: University of Maiduguri; Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi.
North-West: Bayero University, Kano; Kaduna Polytechnic.
South-East: Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam; University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus.
South-South: University of Uyo; Rivers State University.
South-West: Lagos State University; Babcock University.
The NIPR-Air Peace Prize draws on the goodwill of Air Peace Chairman Mr Onyema, who donated N100 million to the Institute and returned the N250000 cash award for winning the Institute’s prize.
Further strengthening its academic presence, NIPR has signed an MoU with Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University to establish the Obi Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe Peace and Reconciliation Annual Lecture Series. The partnership will also promote research in environmental issues, climate change, and sustainability communication.
Recognition and Expansion
The induction of 2,418 new members and 243 student members at universities across Nigeria highlights the Institute’s growth. Additionally, NIPR has honoured several distinguished Nigerians and international figures through Fellowships. Among them are:
Mr. Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos (DG, NTA); Amb. Jake Epelle (Founder, TAF Africa); Rev. Ladi Peter Thompson; Prof. Justin Green (President, Global Alliance); Dr. Ajoritsedere Awosika (Chair, Access Bank); Chief Chukwuemeka Chikelu, former Minister of Information; Dr. John Momoh (Chairman, Channels TV); HRH Dr. Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu (Emir of Bauchi) and Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (Speaker, House of Reps).
Included are Senior High Chief Tony Akiotu – Former Group Managing Director, Daar Communication Plc; Dr. Richard Okhumale Ikiebe – Accomplished Communicator and Academic; Hon. Jerry Joseph Damara – Chairman, Mesotho Group; Mrs. Nella Andem-Ewa Rabana, SAN, Fci Arb- Senior Advocate of Nigeria; and Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN – Vice-Chancellor, University of Ilorin.
Also on the honours roll are Waziri (Sen) Ibrahim M. Ida, CON, Ph.d. – Wazirin Katsina; Senator Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, MFR – Chairman SNECO Group; Senator Dr. Victor C. Umeh, OFR- Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora Affairs; Mr. Labaran Maku, CON- Former Minister of Information; Frank Nweke II- Former Minister of Information; Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, CFR – Former Head of Civil Service of the Federation; Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu – Distinguished Senator.Others include HRH Alh. (Dr.) Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, Emir of Bauchi; Mrs. Emmanuella Nneka Arukwe – Managing Director of NNPC Foundation; H.E. Rt. Hon. Abass Tajudeen – Speaker of the 10th Assembly, House of Representatives; Chief John Nnia Nwodo – Former Minister of Information; and Dr. John Momoh, MON – Chairman of Channels TV.
Many more across government, media, academia, and the private sector.
Strategic Partnerships and Global Outlook
NIPR has entered into several strategic partnerships through MoUs with ARCON, NIMN, Image Merchants Promotion, Rightangle PR, and media institutions such as NTA, AIT, Channels TV, FRCN, and Voice of Nigeria.
The Institute will host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), which will include APRA’s Africa Day and the 25th Anniversary of the Global Alliance—further confirmation of its rising global profile.
Infrastructure and Institutional Strengthening
With the support of the Federal Ministry of Information, NIPR has secured space at Radio House, Abuja, for a national secretariat. A lease agreement with the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria will facilitate the construction of a three-storey building.
The Institute is also revitalising the Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN), led by a committee chaired by Dr. Nkechi Alli-Balogun. This interim management team, which includes past PRCAN presidents, is updating its bylaws to improve transparency and professionalism.
Conclusion
With clear vision, swift action, and enduring partnerships, Ike Neliaku’s leadership has repositioned NIPR as a forward-thinking, globally connected, and professionally rigorous institution. His re-election for another two-year term signals trust in his ability to keep sprinting through the marathon of transformative leadership.
