As the global communications community celebrates World Public Relations Day, Dr. Nkechi Ali-Balogun, Chairman of the Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN) and Principal Consultant/CEO of NECCI Limited, has called on Public Relations professionals across Nigeria to rise above surface-level storytelling and take up the mantle of nation-building through authentic, dialogue-driven communication.
In a powerful statement marking the occasion, Dr. Ali-Balogun emphasized that PR practitioners must become more than message crafters, they must be bridge-builders capable of navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s multi-layered society.
“Our final thoughts must be the result of active listening,” she noted. “We must learn to hear the anxieties and aspirations of diverse groups and be intentional about creating space for difficult but necessary conversations.”
According to Dr. Ali-Balogun, polarization in Nigeria and across the world is being driven by simplistic and divisive narratives, often exaggerated and reinforced by power structures. She argues that the antidote lies in storytelling that reflects inclusiveness, shared values, and common goals, reminding citizens of their interconnectedness.
“As official storytellers, PR professionals must counter ‘single stories’ with narratives that are more human, more unifying, and more reflective of our shared experiences,” she stated.
She warned that press releases and campaign slogans alone won’t heal deep-rooted divisions. Instead, PR professionals must actively engage stakeholders, foster understanding, and open platforms for collaboration over conflict.
Dr. Ali-Balogun highlighted the landmark 2021 National Citizens Summit on Integration, Peace, and Security convened by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) as a case study for the transformative power of strategic communication.
Held across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and engaging citizens in the diaspora, the summit addressed the trust deficit affecting various communities. Through expertly facilitated dialogue sessions, the initiative exposed and tackled divisive narratives, ultimately fostering empathy and unity.
“This summit stands as evidence that communication, when done right, can help reshape national consciousness and build sustainable peace,” she said.
As the world becomes increasingly fragmented, Dr. Ali-Balogun insists that Public Relations must be repositioned as a force for unity, not just image-making.
“Our challenge today is to be the professionals who don’t shy away from complexity, but step into it with empathy, strategy, and a resolute belief in the power of communication to heal and connect,” she charged.
She called on all PR practitioners especially members of PRCAN and the broader communications industry to see World PR Day as a call to recommit to this higher purpose: not only interpreting the world, but actively working to improve it through intentional, inclusive storytelling.
