Lagos NIPR Marks World PR Day 2025, Calls For Strategic Use Of Public Relations To Build Bridges & End Polarisation
The Lagos Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) joins the global communications community to commemorate World PR Day 2025, themed: “Building Bridges and Navigating Polarisation.”
This year’s theme calls for deeper reflection on the role of Public Relations in fostering mutual understanding, promoting unity, and resolving conflict in an increasingly fragmented world.
Speaking on the significance of the day, Chairman of Lagos NIPR, Dr, Samuel Ayetutu, fnipr noted that:
“Public relations is more than media relations or publicity. At its core, PR is about building and managing relationships. In a world threatened by polarisation, disinformation, and mistrust, PR professionals are uniquely positioned to rebuild broken bridges, facilitate dialogue, and promote social cohesion.”
The Lagos Chapter Chairman emphasized that effective communication built on truth, empathy, and engagement can help de-escalate tensions, clarify misperceptions, and encourage inclusive participation in governance and development.
The Chapter also used the occasion to call on policymakers at all levels to integrate strategic communication and professional PR advisory into their governance and policy frameworks, particularly in conflict resolution, community relations, and stakeholder engagement.
“The failure to proactively communicate is often the seed of conflict. Government and institutions must understand that PR is not optional, it is essential to peacebuilding and national unity,” Dr. Ayetutu added.
In marking this global day of reflection and celebration, Lagos NIPR reaffirmed its commitment to promoting ethical standards, advancing professional capacity, and providing platforms for dialogue and continuous learning among practitioners.
Signed:
Samuel O. Adeyemi
Public Relations Officer
Lagos NIPR