By Danjuma Amodu | March 15, 2026
The President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, has stressed the need for institutions and organisations to employ qualified professionals in public relations roles.
Dr. Neliaku made this call during the NIPR Anambra Chapter’s Annual General Meeting and Summit in Awka, Anambra State. The event, themed “Managing Reputation Capital in the Digital Age: Influence, Integrity and Impact,” brought together PR practitioners, academics, and industry stakeholders to discuss best practices and emerging trends in the profession.
In his keynote address, Dr. Neliaku highlighted the importance of qualified PR professionals in shaping organisational reputation and driving business success.
During the event, several awards were presented. Apart from SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who received the Life Reputation Award for Public Service, other distinguished individuals honoured at the 2026 NIPR Anambra State Chapter AGM/Summit in Awka included Chief Sir Norbert Onyedum Obi (KSJ), State Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), honoured for his contributions to educational and political growth in Anambra State; High Chief Senator Ben Ndi Obi (CON), former Special Adviser to President Obasanjo on Inter-party Affairs, honoured for his contributions; and Ogbuefi Tony Nnacheta, immediate past Commissioner for Information, honoured for his contributions.
The event took place on March 13, 2026, at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Awka and brought together various stakeholders in the public and private sectors.
During his visit, Dr. Neliaku also met with Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, to discuss preparations for the World Public Relations Forum 2026. The forum, expected to attract global PR experts and industry leaders, aims to promote excellence in public relations practice and foster collaboration among professionals.
Other outcomes from the event include the induction of new NIPR members and the announcement of plans to establish a PR research centre in Anambra State. The centre will provide training and research opportunities for PR professionals and students, enhancing the state’s capacity for effective communication and stakeholder engagement.
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, established in 1963, remains the apex regulatory body for public relations practice in Nigeria. The institute gained statutory recognition in 1990 under Cap N114 of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, empowering it to regulate and promote professional standards in the industry.
Over the decades, the institute has championed ethical communication, professional discipline, and strategic reputation management across various sectors. Awards presented by the institute are widely regarded as national recognition of excellence, integrity, and professional legacy.
