As the countdown begins to the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) 2026 set to be hosted in Nigeria for the first time in nearly two decades, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) is taking strategic steps to galvanize continental support, ensuring that Africa speaks with one strong, united voice on the global stage of communications.
At the just-concluded 2025 African Public Relations Association (APRA) Conference in Mombasa, Kenya, a high-level engagement between NIPR and Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, Zambia’s Minister of Information and Media, marked a critical milestone in building regional momentum. The discussions explored avenues for cross-border media collaboration, strengthening public communication systems, and elevating ethical PR practices across Africa.
NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku, led the Nigerian delegation and reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to ensuring that the upcoming forum serves as a turning point for Africa’s global communications presence. “This is more than just Nigeria’s moment. It is Africa’s opportunity to rewrite its narrative, showcase its capabilities, and position public relations as a tool for development,” Dr. Neliaku declared.
The historic WPRF, organized by the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, returns to African soil in November 2026, nearly 19 years after it was last held in South Africa. So far, 33 African countries have pledged participation, a powerful testament to the continent’s unified ambition to take charge of its image.
Dr. Neliaku, in his welcome address at the APRA Conference, provided a poignant reflection on Nigeria’s journey to securing the hosting rights. He revealed that the initial bid was lost to South Africa, a previous host despite Nigeria’s compelling case. “It was demoralizing,” he said. “But thanks to sustained diplomacy and the united voices of African communicators, the Global Alliance reversed its decision in favor of fairness and regional equity. Nigeria won by a landslide.”
The NIPR President emphasized that public relations is central to national development, particularly for a continent still grappling with external misperceptions and internal misrepresentations. “Perception is shaped by what people see, hear, and experience. Africa has long suffered the brunt of a negative narrative that focuses on instability, corruption, and crisis. It is time to change that and only Africa can tell its own story authentically.”
Dr. Neliaku described the upcoming forum as a watershed moment for not just Nigeria, but the entire continent. “We are not just hosting an event; we are reclaiming our voice in global conversations. Africa is strong. Africa is ready. Africa is believable. And above all, Africa can speak for Africa.”
With strategic partnerships being built across the continent, the WPRF 2026 promises to be more than a conference, it will be a statement of purpose, unity, and the power of strategic communication to reshape Africa’s destiny.
