The maiden edition of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Week starts today in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
The state governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, as the Chief Host, will welcome delegates and guests from across the country and beyond to the June 12th Cultural Centre. The programme included the Annual General Meeting of the Institute.
The historic gathering, which runs till Friday, 26th April, promises to be the most significant congregation of public relations professionals in Nigeria, attracting policymakers, industry leaders, and distinguished members of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, which represents over 126 countries.
According to the organisers, NPRWeek 2024 offers a diverse array of sessions and activities, meticulously curated to foster learning, networking, and ideas exchange among delegates. There will be a pre-conference forum on Monday organised to explore the roles of traditional institutions in modern day democratic governance. This will set the stage for insightful discussions and interactive sessions. Notable speakers, including NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku; and Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Malam Jibril Baba Ndache, will engage with communication, public relations, marketing, and advertising students, offering invaluable perspectives and mentorship.
Day 2 marks the commencement of the official conference proceedings. The opening ceremony will feature Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; and Director General of Jigawa State Investment Promotion, Hajia Furera Isma Jumare, setting the tone for substantive discourse and collaboration.
There will be breakout sessions on pertinent topics – from public relations to public affairs consulting, to the future of AI in PR. Industry stalwarts like retired Chairman of KPMG Africa/Senior Partner KPMG Nigeria, Mr. Kunle Elebute; and founder of Digital PRWire/CEO CIHAN Group, Mr. Celestine Achi will lead sessions, sharing their expertise and insights with participants.
A session on the challenges of Public Affairs practice in Nigeria will feature Vice President Corporate and Government Relations of Olams International, Mr. Ade Adefeko; Partner, Public Affairs and Strategic Communications at CMC Connect LLP, Mr. Adetola Odusote; Public Affairs and Sustainability Lead for Nestle Nigeria, Mrs Victoria Ndidiamaka Uwadoka; Government Relations specialist, Mr. Sola Adebawo; and CEO Rainbow Strategy Limited, Mr. Franklyn Ginger-Eke.
Day 3 offers a unique focus on health and wellbeing for PR professionals, complemented by a celebration of Nigerian culture – Adire Day. Participants will engage in enriching discussions, led by medical personnel, Dr. Sunday Amosu; and Secretary of Lagos Council of NIPR, Dr. Fatima Ahmadu promoting holistic wellness within the industry.
As the event progresses, delegates will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Abeokuta, immersing themselves in its rich history and cultural heritage. Guided tours of landmarks such as Olumo Rock and the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library will offer a glimpse into Nigeria’s storied past.
The last day, 26th April sees the departure of delegates, marking the end of an unforgettable week of learning, collaboration, and camaraderie.
In the words of the Chairman of the Planning Committee of NPRWeek 2024, Chief Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, the event promises an extraordinary experience, replete with insightful dialogues, cultural immersion, and opportunities for forging lasting connections within the global PR fraternity.
For registration and programme details, please visit the NPR website: https://nprweek.niprng.org.ng/
