Nigeria Steps Up Preparations For WPRF, Unveils Broadcast Partner and Cultural Programme

Nigeria is ramping up preparations for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), with organisers this week briefing the Diplomatic Corps in Abuja on arrangements for the November event, even as the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) finalises a broadcast partnership and a cultural programme to welcome thousands of foreign delegates.

As part of preparations, NIPR has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), also known as Radio Nigeria, naming it the official host broadcaster for the forum. The partnership, which was sealed at Radio House in Abuja, is expected to boost publicity for the event both locally and internationally.

The forum, themed “Responsible Communication: The Voice of the World,” is scheduled to hold from November 15 to 21 at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja. It is expected to draw more than 3,000 delegates, including heads of state, policymakers, diplomats and communication professionals, from 126 countries, making it one of the biggest international gatherings hosted by Nigeria this year. The forum is being hosted in partnership with the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, the African Public Relations Association (APRA) and NIPR, with the University of Public Relations and Leadership in Gudi, Nasarawa State, set to host one of the forum’s events outside the main Abuja venue.

Details of the arrangements were shared on Monday during a joint briefing between NIPR and members of the Diplomatic Corps at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, attended by NIPR officials and other stakeholders. Suleiman Haruna, Chairman of the forum’s National Planning Committee, introduced the key plans at the briefing, noting that delegates are expected to include professional icons, policymakers, youths, students and representatives from various sectors. NIPR President and Chairman of Council, Dr Ike Neliaku, said the event would also host the 37th African Public Relations Association (APRA) Conference and a roundtable of African information ministers, which Nigeria’s Minister of Information is expected to lead.

Also speaking at the briefing, media veteran Moji Makanjuola commended NIPR for promoting dialogue, diplomacy and stronger relationships between Nigeria and the international community. She praised the institute’s efforts to promote women’s participation in leadership and called for greater opportunities for women and young professionals, as well as continued support for vulnerable groups, adding that effective public relations should focus on building trust, giving people a voice and strengthening relationships.

Organisers are also putting together a cultural showcase to run alongside the main conference sessions, including a Jollof Rice Festival designed to feed 10,000 people and a tailoring pavilion where visiting delegates can have African attire made on-site. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured intending participants of a smooth visa process through Nigeria’s missions abroad.

President Bola Tinubu is billed to serve as Chief Host of the forum, with several African and world leaders expected to attend. A major expected outcome of the week-long event is the signing of the Abuja Declaration on Responsible Communication, which organisers say will set an agenda for the global public relations profession.