By Muhyideen Jimoh
The Presidency has urged stakeholders to leverage the forthcoming 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) in Abuja to promote Nigeria’s image and counter negative narratives.
Nigeria is scheduled to host the Global Alliance WPRF from Nov. 15 to Nov. 21 under the theme, “Deepening Responsible Communications.”
Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, made the call on Thursday while receiving members of the WPRF Abuja 2026 Planning Committee at the State House, Abuja.
Onanuga expressed concern over negative portrayals of Nigeria in some quarters, saying they often misinformed foreigners about the realities of the country.
He pledged support for the forum, emphasising that it provided an opportunity to present a more accurate narrative about Nigeria and showcase its cultural diversity.
“You see, as a Nigerian, I always feel very odd when you read online the kind of things our people put out in the public space. They say negative things about this country.
“This is a great opportunity for us to correct those things of concern to people. For me, I’ve seen the conference as something that will be good for our country, and it should be supported,” he said.
Earlier, Dr Ike Neliaku, President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), who led the delegation, sought the Presidency’s support for the successful hosting of the event.
Neliaku said the conference would showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, adding that Nigeria was the first African country to secure the hosting rights.
He said Mexico, India and Berlin, Germany, were among previous hosts of the forum.
Neliaku said delegates would sign an accord known as “The Abuja Declaration,” while Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema would deliver the keynote address.
He added that President Bola Tinubu would receive a Lifetime Award of Excellence in Reforms during the forum.
Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dr Suleiman Haruna, said preparations were in top gear, with the committee partnering with media organisations and security agencies.
Mr Yakubu Lamai, a committee member and Director-General of Strategic Communications to the Nasarawa State Government, said the state was building a world-class Public Relations University.
Renowned broadcaster and committee member, Mrs Moji Makanjuola, said the forum would be gender-inclusive, with women and persons with disabilities (PwDs) fully accommodated.
Makanjuola solicited the Presidency’s support, emphasising the need for Nigerians to prepare adequately to receive international delegates.
“We have to be ready as Nigerians to receive the world, it is a Nigerian thing, it is not for the Ministry,” she said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that about 3,000 delegates from 126 member countries of the Global Alliance are expected to attend the forum.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru