The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, is taking its campaign for responsible communication across the country ahead of the 2026 World Public Relations Forum, WPRF holding in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
The Institute says hosting the Forum gives Nigeria an opportunity to tackle misinformation, improve how the country tells its story and strengthen its international reputation.
The sensitisation walk was held simultaneously across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
From the Zoological Garden in Area One to Radio House, members of the NIPR and other stakeholders walked through parts of Abuja, taking the message of responsible communication directly to the public.
The exercise is designed to draw public attention to the WPRF which Nigeria will host in Abuja in November, with the theme “Responsible Communication: The Voice of the World.”
Beyond creating awareness for the Forum, NIPR wants Nigerians to pay greater attention to how the country is being presented at home and abroad.
NIPR Chairman of the FCT Chapter, Stanley Ogadigo, says the event is a reputation project that requires the collective support of government, the private sector and Nigerians.
Nigeria secured the hosting rights to the global forum, which is expected to attract representatives from 126 countries.
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Chairman of the WPRF National Planning Committee, Suleiman Haruna, says the gathering comes at a time when the communication landscape is facing new challenges, particularly the abuse of social media and the rapid development of artificial intelligence.
He says participants will examine how to protect the integrity of information while promoting responsible communication and freedom of expression.
Organisers also expect the Forum to generate economic activity beyond the public relations industry, particularly in hospitality, tourism and other service sectors.
The FCT Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Olusola Odumosu, drew attention to the security consequences of false and unverified information.
He says misinformation can cause panic, provoke attacks, and create opportunities for criminal activity.
The sensitisation walk across the country is being used to drive home the message that responsible communication is not only a professional obligation, but one that has consequences for national cohesion, security and Nigeria’s international reputation.
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(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
