In a significant step to enhance Nigeria’s marketing communications industry and the reputation management of the country, the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This historic collaboration, formalized today at NIMN headquarters in Lagos, is designed to drive industry growth by combining the expertise and resources of both institutions. The partnership reflects NIMN’s broader strategy, which has included similar alliances with the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) UK and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria. These alliances aim to foster synergy, elevate standards, and advance continuous professional learning and development within the sector.
At the signing ceremony, attended by Council members and representatives from both Institutes, the MoU was recognized as a pivotal step toward redefining and sustaining professional excellence in Nigeria’s marketing and public relations industries as well as to aid the rebirth initiative of NIPR which is aimed at reawakening a mindset shift towards a positive brand perception for the country. Through this partnership, NIMN and NIPR commit to addressing industry challenges and creating new opportunities for industry professionals through rigorous research, training, ethical guidelines, and innovative development programs.
Reflecting on the significance of the partnership, Mr. Idorenyen Enang, President of NIMN, emphasized, “This MoU represents a transformative step forward for Nigeria’s marketing communications industry. Our alliance with NIPR reiterates NIMN’s commitment to building a strong, cohesive foundation where every aspect of brand management converges, encompassing marketing, advertising, public relations, and reputation management. By working together, we are equipped to overcome the industry’s challenges through a unified, holistic approach.”
Mr. Enang also noted the symbolic importance of the occasion, describing it as a “dream come true” for the industry. He elaborated: “This partnership will not only combine the talents and expertise within our organizations but also serve as a catalyst to empower Nigerian professionals to elevate our national brand on a global scale. We’re witnessing the rebirth of an industry that will bring sustainable impact to Nigeria.”
In agreement, Dr. Ike Neliaku, President of NIPR, highlighted the broader implications of this collaboration for the communications ecosystem: “The NIPR’s collaboration with NIMN represents our shared commitment to setting standards that reshape the narrative around public relations and marketing in Nigeria. Through this MoU, we are paving the way for a sector that is forward-thinking, responsible, and capable of driving real, positive change in society.” Dr. Neliaku further underlined the importance of a “national rebirth,” saying, “Nigeria must reinvent its essence, integrity, and leverage its unique resources. Our nation’s reputation is at a crossroads, and it’s time we take control. This collaboration is foundational to restoring Nigeria’s image and strengthening our competitive advantage on the world stage.”
This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) represents a committed effort by both the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to raise professional benchmarks and address Nigeria’s public perception. Central to this partnership is a focus on ethical alignment, professional development, and updated regulatory standards, aiming to create a sector defined by transparency, quality, and accountability.
The Institutes see this collaboration as integral to supporting Nigeria’s socio-economic growth, with an emphasis on building a strong, culturally aligned framework for reputation management. By fostering a marketing communications landscape that is both innovative and reflective of Nigerian values, the MoU aims to reshape the industry’s role in promoting a positive and authentic national image. This partnership will work toward unifying standards across public relations and marketing, enhancing Nigeria’s global reputation and influence through a more dynamic approach to marketing communications.
This MoU is the latest initiative in NIMN’s series of strategic partnerships that include collaborations with CIM UK and ARCON. Each of these alliances aims to create an environment that enhances industry standards and supports Nigeria’s socio-economic development. These partnerships also focus on bolstering Nigeria’s reputation globally through effective, ethical, and impactful marketing communications practices.
