The Lagos chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has unveiled The Shining Stars as the theme for this year’s Lagos Public Relations Industry Gala and Awards (LaPRIGA).
At a media briefing on Tuesday, the chapter Chairman, Mrs Comfort Nwankwo said the theme is a celebration of outstanding achievements in public relations and communication.
With the ninth edition holding at MUSON Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos on Friday, 13 December, LaPRIGA has long been a prestigious event in Nigeria’s public relations landscape, recognising outstanding contributions to communication, innovation, and societal impact. Nwankwo expressed pride in the event’s growing significance, noting that LaPRIGA continues to honour exceptional individuals and organisations that have illuminated the path forward in the public relations industry.
The Lagos chapter chairman explained the significance of the theme, describing it as a tribute to communication professionals who have illuminated the path forward in a rapidly evolving industry. “This year’s theme celebrates the brightest minds in our profession, those who have excelled in using strategic communication to create lasting impact”.
LaPRIGA 2024 will honor individuals and organisations that have distinguished themselves across various categories, including Best in Technology PR, Crisis Communication, Public Relations Journalist of the Year, and many others.
Reflecting the growing role of public relations in fostering sustainability, this year’s event will again include an award for Environment and Sustainability, showcasing the industry’s commitment to global environmental efforts.
Nwankwo also announced that this year’s selection panel will be chaired by a renowned PR expert, Mr. Muyiwa Akintunde. She said that his leadership is expected to ensure that the process upholds the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, adding: “Mr. Akintunde’s vast experience makes him an ideal leader to oversee the selection of this year’s honourees”.
The selection panel will evaluate nominees using a strict set of criteria. It will ensure that only the most deserving candidates are recognised for their achievements.
Voting for LaPRIGA 2024 will be open to members of the NIPR Lagos chapter, who will determine the winners in select categories. Akintunde said that key metrics would be used to evaluate the most impactful campaigns of the year, with further details to be shared shortly.
LaPRIGA has long been recognized as the “Oscars” of the communication industry in Nigeria, and this year’s event promises to set a new standard for excellence. The gala will not only celebrate achievements but also highlight emerging trends, such as the growing influence of digital media and the importance of corporate social responsibility in the public relations field.
“This year’s theme, The Shining Stars, pays tribute to the professionals who have set themselves apart with their creativity, strategic thinking, and measurable impact. Public relations practitioners are often the unsung heroes behind successful narratives that build trust and drive change. We are here to celebrate their brilliance”, Nwankwo said.
Chairman of the LaPRIGA Planning Committee, Mrs Victoria Uwadoka highlighted the evolving role of public relations professionals in today’s digital age, where trends like data-driven campaigns and corporate social responsibility are becoming increasingly significant. She described LaPRIGA 2024 as not just a celebration of achievements, but a platform to set new benchmarks for the industry.
She said: “As communicators, we play a critical role in today’s world of transparency and accountability, This theme is a call to all public relations professionals to rise above the ordinary, embody excellence, and become beacons of light in our field”.
As LaPRIGA 2024 approaches, Nwankwo encouraged all communication professionals to continue to strive for excellence, creativity, and innovation. “Let this event remind us that our work matters. Through strategic communication, we are shaping narratives and influencing decisions that drive meaningful societal change”, she further said.
