Nigeria is set to host the world’s first Public Relations and Leadership University, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bridging the communication gap between leadership and the public.
This was disclosed by Ike Neliaku, President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), during the 2024 annual conference of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter of the NIPR in Abuja.
Themed “Leadership and Economy Transformation,” the conference provided the platform for Neliaku to unveil the institute’s ambitious vision of cultivating a new generation of leaders through specialized education in public relations and leadership.
“We have seen nations, those who understand the value of communication and take it very seriously. That is why they look for experts in communication to guide them, be beside them, direct them, and communicate with them,” Neliaku stated.
He revealed that the initiative had gained significant traction, with Nasarawa State playing a pivotal role in its realization. Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has pledged land and other resources to support the project.
“Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State is willing and happy to give us land; give us the support that is required to ensure that the institute is built. I am happy to announce that this university has already been accepted by the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management,” Neliaku added.
The Global Alliance, which represents public relations practitioners from 126 countries, has endorsed the project, marking a significant milestone for the proposed institution.
“There is no other place with a university of public relations, and I can assure you that graduates from this university will be recognised in 126 countries across the world,” he said.
The announcement drew commendation from Muhammadu Dingyadi, Minister of Labour and Employment, who lauded the NIPR’s efforts to elevate the standards of communication and leadership in Nigeria.
“I wish to note that the institute has been at the forefront of shaping the communication terrain and elevating the standard of public relations practice in Nigeria. It is, thereby, creating a conducive environment for advancing unbiased dissemination of information and contributing immensely to Nigeria’s socio-economic activities,” Dingyadi remarked.
Stanley Ogadigo, Chairman of the NIPR, FCT chapter, highlighted the relevance of the theme in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges. “Leadership is a vital instrument to address Nigeria’s present economic challenges, hence the theme and call for the gathering to discuss ways forward,” he said.
This initiative marks a significant step in redefining leadership and communication practices in Nigeria, positioning the country as a global hub for public relations education and leadership development.
