The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has officially inaugurated a 22-member National Planning Committee (NPC) to spearhead the organisation of the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), set for Abuja. This prestigious global gathering will attract PR professionals from over 126 countries, marking a historic moment for Nigeria as it hosts the world’s biggest communication event.
The Senate, led by Sen. Osita Izunaso, has thrown its weight behind the forum, pledging support and urging improvements at Eagle Square and the Federal Secretariat to welcome global delegates with true Nigerian hospitality. Senate President Sen. Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Rep. Tajudeen Abbas will attend, signalling strong legislative endorsement.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, highlighted WPRF Abuja 2026 as a defining platform for Nigeria to counter negative narratives and showcase its cultural, democratic, and economic progress under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The event’s theme, “Responsible Communication: The Voice of the World,” calls communicators worldwide to promote truth, empathy, and public good amid the challenges of misinformation.
NIPR President Dr Ike Neliaku likened the forum to the “World Cup of Public Relations,” positioning Nigeria as Africa’s communication hub with back-to-back hosting of the global WPRF and the African Public Relations Association conference. The NPC, chaired by Dr Suleiman Haruna and co-chaired by Malam Yakubu Lamai, is tasked with delivering a six-day programme combining workshops, trainings, and cultural entertainment inspired by FESTAC ’77—complete with horse riding and spoken word performances—to make participants fall in love with Nigeria.
Adding star power to the event, Nigerian music icon Innocent Idibia, aka “2baba,” has been named Music Ambassador of WPRF Abuja 2026, promising a memorable fusion of communication and culture.
With keynote speeches from key ministers and a hybrid unveiling event to engage local and international audiences, Abuja 2026 promises to elevate Nigeria’s image globally, celebrate Africa’s storytelling, and redefine responsible communication in a connected world.
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