By Danjuma Amodu | February 21, 2026
Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, has added another feather to his cap with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) winning the 2025 Global Public Relations Association award.
The Institute’s triumph at the World Public Relations and Communication Award in Lisbon, Portugal, where it emerged winner of the 2025 Global Public Relations Association award, beating 89 entries from 19 countries, is a badge of honour not just for NIPR, but for Nigeria as a whole. This is a testament to Idris’s sterling leadership and expertise in public information management.
A Proven Track Record
A seasoned journalist and administrator, Idris brought a wealth of experience to the Ministry when he assumed office under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership. His background as a media entrepreneur, publisher of Blueprint Newspaper, and one-time General Secretary of the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), has left an indelible mark on his commitment to journalistic excellence and media regulation, consistently demonstrating his passion for excellence in journalism.
Leading with Vision
As Minister, Idris has demonstrated a keen understanding of effective communication, shaping national discourse and projecting Nigeria’s image globally. He has provided strategic direction and support to agencies under his purview, fostering growth and excellence. His approach to information management is marked by demureness, maturity, and a commitment to speaking with one voice, thereby rebuilding trust and confidence amongst Nigerians.
Repositioning Nigeria Globally
Idris’s leadership has repositioned Nigeria on the global stage, leveraging public relations and strategic communication to promote national interests. He has emphasised ethical communication, public trust-building, and national reputation management, setting a new standard for the Ministry and the country. His support for institutions like NIPR has empowered them to excel internally and globally.
A Testament to Excellence
As President Tinubu noted, in his congratulatary message to the NIPR and the Minister. “The award is a testament to Nigeria’s growing influence and professionalism in the global public relations ecosystem, reflecting the Minister’s ability to galvanise stakeholders, drive reforms, and promote innovation in the communication sector.”
The coveted NIPR award is a milestone in Minister Idris’s tenure and a pointer to the heights Nigeria can scale with effective leadership and strategic communication. He added.
As the country navigates complex challenges, the Information Ministry, under Idris’s guidance, remains a beacon of hope, promoting unity, progress, and global understanding.
The NIPR Story: Dr. Ike Neliaku Midas Touch
It is worthy to note that NIPR’s achievement of this feat can not be divorced from the vision and leadership acumen of Dr. Ike Neliaku, Chairman of the Institute. Under his leadership, NIPR has undergone a remarkable transformation, repositioning itself as a premier professional association in Nigeria. Dr. Neliaku’s focus and vision-oriented leadership have attracted high-calibre public relations practitioners, elevating the Institute’s prestige and status.
Through his leadership, NIPR has created opportunities for growth and excellence, making it a coveted membership for professionals seeking to enhance their reputation and standing in the industry. Members who previously underestimated the Institute’s value now hold it in high esteem, recognising its role in promoting professionalism and best practices in public relations.
Neliaku’s leadership has been instrumental in rebranding NIPR as a respected and influential voice in Nigeria’s communication sector, earning recognition and respect from peers and stakeholders alike. His commitment to excellence has set a new benchmark for professional associations in Nigeria, inspiring others to strive for similar excellence.
