Day 2 of Nigeria PR Week 2024: Ideas, Inspiration, and Industry Icons
Over 1,200 delegates from across Nigeria’s public and private sectors gathered at the prestigious Ceedapeg Hotel in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for Day 2 of the Nigeria Public Relations Week 2024. Attendees included government officials, PR practitioners, academics, international guests, and other key stakeholders from across the country, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
A Day of Legacy and Forward Thinking
Building on Day 1, which featured a roundtable with traditional leaders, student engagement at the University of Uyo, and a vibrant manifesto night, Day 2 offered deeper strategic conversations and recognition of PR’s impact on national unity and global relevance.
The day featured a blend of keynote addresses, plenary sessions, and special recognitions, reinforcing NPRW’s growing status as Africa’s leading PR think tank.
Conversations That Shape the Future
The day began with a plenary session chaired by Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, a renowned PR strategist. His presentation, titled “Ten Things Shaping the Future of Public Relations,” touched on emerging trends such as artificial intelligence, decentralised media, and transparency ethics. He challenged attendees to “embrace agility or risk obsolescence.”
In his welcome address, Mr. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, Chairman of the National Planning Committee, applauded the efforts of the organising team. “The real heroes are the committee members who worked through the night to bring this vision to life,” he said.
A Call to National Duty
Dr. Ike Neliaku, President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), welcomed guests with an inspiring message. He called PR professionals “custodians of truth” in an era plagued by misinformation. He also revealed Nigeria’s bid to host the Global Alliance of PR Professionals.
The keynote speech by Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of Nigeria’s Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, connected public relations with national trust. “Tax reforms aren’t just numbers; they’re stories of trust,” he said. “When citizens understand the ‘why,’ compliance becomes easier.”
Honouring the Legends
A moving highlight of the day was the Posthumous Awards Ceremony, celebrating PR pioneers, including:
- Christiana Essien-Igbokwe
- HRM Oba Olufemi Ogunleye
- Elder Uduak Obot
Families received plaques in tribute to their lasting legacies.
Strengthening National Reputation
The event also saw the installation of Dr. John Momoh (OON), Chairman of Channels Television, as Chair of the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG), with Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi as Vice Chair.
Alhaji Mohammadu Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, emphasised alignment between his ministry’s agenda and NIPR’s mission.
Akwa Ibom’s Commitment to Progress
Representing the Governor of Akwa Ibom, Deputy Governor Akon Eyakenyi showcased the state’s efforts in healthcare expansion and digital infrastructure. She accepted the governor’s investiture as an NIPR Patron, affirming ongoing state support for the institute’s national development goals.
In his vote of thanks, Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, Vice President of NIPR, appreciated the role of sponsors, volunteers, and the Akwa Ibom government in making the day’s events a success.
