The Lagos Public Relations Industry Gala and Awards (LaPRIGA) celebrated the best of public relations and communications excellence at a grand ceremony last Friday, at the MUSON Centre, Onikan. This year’s edition honored exceptional achievements across different categories, showcasing creativity, professionalism, and innovation in public relations practice.
The evening brought together industry leaders, professionals, and organizations who have made significant contributions to the growth and recognition of PR in Nigeria.
Under the theme ‘The Shining Stars’, this year’s ceremony celebrated individuals and organisations whose outstanding contributions continue to shape narratives, foster connections, and drive societal impact.
Delivering the opening address, the Chairman of the Lagos chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Mrs. Comfort Obot Nwankwo highlighted the transformative power of PR in championing change and inspiring progress. She noted: “Public Relations is not just a profession; it is a force for good. From building trust in brands to amplifying the voices of underserved communities, PR professionals are the architects of impactful narratives that improve lives and communities”.
Chairman of the LaPRIGA Selection Panel, Mr. Muyiwa Akintunde echoed these sentiments, emphasising the rigorous evaluation process that upheld the highest standards of integrity. With 81 entries across 21 competitive categories, nominees demonstrated excellence in strategy, creativity, and measurable outcomes.
In addition to celebrating excellence, the event paid tribute to the unsung heroes behind PR successes, including journalists, and others, whose roles often go unacknowledged.
LaPRIGA continues to position Lagos as a hub for world-class public relations, promoting innovation and collaboration in the industry. As Nwankwo urged attendees, “Let us use our influence to advance ethics, inclusivity, and sustainability in PR, while championing youth involvement and community-driven narratives”.
Below is the list of the winners who were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments:
2024 LaPRIGA Award Winners
1. PR Agency of the Year: CMC Connect LLP
2. Best Brand in Storytelling: Indigo Integrated Limited – NBC’s IWD 2024
3. Best in Corporate Social Responsibility: Rector Cares – Opi Water Project
4. Best in Crisis Management: Chain Reactions Africa – FIRS Campaign for a Greater Good
5. Best in Entertainment PR: Obinna Inogbo
6. Best in Public Relations Education: Chidorum Nwakanma (Media Relations Playbook)
7. PR Journalist of the Year: Abimbola Mohammed (Marketing Edge)
8. Best in Public Relations (Professionals in Education): Kehinde Oyesanmi (Covenant University)
9. Best in Technology Public Relations: Ifeoluwa Ariyo-Agbaje – Vesti
10. Best Innovation in PR Practice: Offset Communications – Kora Sundown Session
11. Most Influential PR Professional: Israel Jaiye Opayemi
12. Public Sector PR Campaign of the Year: Chain Reactions Africa – FIRS Campaign
13. Environment and Sustainability PR Award: Airtel Nigeria – Baadun Beach Clean-Up
14. Most Data-Driven Campaign: NBC – #YouthEmpowered campaign
15. Excellence in Community Relations: NBC – #YouthEmpowered campaign
16. Excellence in Internal Communication and Employee Engagement: Airtel Nigeria
17. Model Agency of All Time: CMC Connect LLP
18. Rising PR Practitioner of the Year: Moremi Elekwachi
19. PR Practitioner of the Year: Bolaji Abimola
20. Corporate Communications Practitioner: Sade Morgan
Lifetime Achievement Awards
– Abiola Atanda
– Epa Ogie Eboigbe
– M. B. A. Sannie
Awards of Excellence for Service to the Lagos Chapter:
– FORTUNE Mbamalu Okonkwo
– Olabamiji Adeleye
Awards of Excellence for Promoting the Ideals of Public Relations:
– Lagos State Government
Shining Star Awards
– Hon. Rasak Ajala (anipr), Chairman, Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA
Lagos NIPR Shining Stars Awards
– Rafiat Gawat
– Chineze Amanfo
Most Reputable Brand of the Year:
– Access Bank PLC
Outstanding Broadcast Station of the Year:
– TVC
Awards of Recognition for Outstanding Support to Public Relations Practice:
– Air Peace
– TGI Group
– Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan
– Mediacraft Associates
Indeed, the event reinforced the critical role of public relations in shaping narratives, building brands, and driving corporate success. The Lagos chapter of NIPR remains committed to advancing the profession and celebrating its remarkable practitioners.
The chapter expresses profound gratitude to its sponsors, partners, and supporters, whose contributions have ensured the success of LaPRIGA 2024.
