The Chief Executive of CMC Connect and Chairman national planning committee of NPRW 2025, Yomi Badejo-Okusanya fmipr,
has said that this year’s event provides an opportunity for the Public Relations sector to be repositioned at the center of national discourse so that it’s value can be ascertained.
Badejo-Okusanya pointed that he came to the realization while planning the NPRW in which he saw an opportunity to reposition public relations.
YBO, as he is fondly called made the statement during his opening remark at the day 2 of the ongoing event- which has pulled stakeholders and industry players within the PR space and beyond in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.
“For too long, public relations in Nigeria and our institute, have been marginalized, with many failing to understand the true value we offer. Ironically, while we solve reputational issues for others, we neglected our own. Our profession, it seemed, needed its own PR. Under the leadership of President Ike Neliaku, Vice President Prof. ES Dandaura, and the Governing Council, we’re witnessing a renaissance. Members now proudly embrace their professional identity, and our value is once again being recognized.”
Over 1,000 practitioners nationwide are currently gathered at Uyo, the Akwa Ibom state capital for the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Week (NPRW).
With the theme, “Solid Minerals: A Solid Path to Nigeria’s Sustainable Economic Recovery – The Challenge for Public Relations,” this year’s conference acknowledges the profound impact of technological advancements, image buildings, reputation management and perceptions.
Speaking in his opening remark, Dr. Ike Neliaku fnipr, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of public relations (NIPR), noted that image and reputation building are vital in shaping narratives.
He emphasized that the country’s image needs significant improvement, adding that effective leadership and communication are crucial in addressing this challenge.
Also speaking, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alh. Mohammed Idris, urged public relations professionals to continue in its role as central agents of national renewal by helping in shaping and projecting Nigeria’s rising economic profile to the world.
One of the highlights of the day 2 event, was the installment of Dr. John Momoh, OON, Chairman of Channels Television, as Chair of the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG), and Bashir Adeniyi, customs comptroller-general as Vice Chair.
