In a landmark moment for Africa’s communication industry, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), in collaboration with the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, officially conducted the Continental Unveiling of the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) at the prestigious Radisson Blu Hotel, Sandton, Johannesburg.
The event marks a major milestone in the buildup to the 2026 World Public Relations Forum, which will be hosted live in Nigeria, positioning the country as a global hub for communication leadership, innovation, and professional excellence.
A Milestone for African Public Relations
Leading the unveiling was Dr. Ike Neliaku, President of the NIPR, accompanied by distinguished communication leaders including Irene Lungu, Chair of the African Region of the Global Alliance Board; Bradly Howland, President of the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA); and Prof. Renè Benecke, Member of the Global Alliance Board of Directors.
The event gathered leading communicators, academics, and industry stakeholders from across Africa, who expressed enthusiasm and anticipation for the historic hosting of the WPRF in Nigeria.
“This moment is a powerful testament to Africa’s growing influence in the global communication ecosystem,” said Dr. Neliaku. “The World Public Relations Forum coming to Nigeria is not just a national achievement — it is a continental celebration of African excellence, innovation, and unity through communication.”
Africa’s Voice in Global Communication
The World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) is the flagship global event of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, attracting thought leaders, policymakers, scholars, and communication professionals from more than 100 countries.
The Forum provides a unique platform for advancing strategic communication, reputation management, ethical leadership, and public engagement — all critical pillars of modern public relations practice.
The hosting of the 2026 edition in Nigeria underscores the country’s leadership and credibility in professional communication, following NIPR’s recent international collaborations, policy reforms, and professional development initiatives.
From Johannesburg to Abuja: The Train Moves Home
Following the successful Continental Unveiling in Johannesburg, the NIPR delegation announced that the National Unveiling Ceremony will hold on Monday, 20th October 2025, at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja.
All NIPR members, communication professionals, media executives, and stakeholders are invited to participate in the event, which will formally kick off Nigeria’s year-long preparation for hosting the global forum.
“From Sandton to Abuja, the journey towards 2026 is not just about hosting a world-class event,” Dr. Neliaku noted. “It is about redefining the African narrative — showcasing our professionalism, diversity, and commitment to ethical communication.”
Continental Collaboration and Global Recognition
The Johannesburg unveiling also featured a strong display of continental collaboration, highlighting partnerships between African communication bodies and the Global Alliance.
Bradly Howland, President of PRISA, commended Nigeria’s leadership role, noting that the 2026 forum will create opportunities for cross-border partnerships, capacity development, and knowledge exchange among African communication professionals.
Irene Lungu emphasized that the Forum represents a turning point for the continent’s global image:
“Africa’s communication professionals have stories, solutions, and strategies the world needs to hear. Nigeria’s hosting of WPRF 2026 is a platform for that voice.”
Looking Ahead to WPRF 2026 in Nigeria
As preparations intensify, the 2026 WPRF promises to be a convergence of ideas, innovation, and influence — featuring keynote sessions, masterclasses, policy dialogues, and cultural showcases designed to highlight Nigeria’s creativity, hospitality, and intellectual leadership.
With global attendance expected to surpass previous records, stakeholders believe the event will not only strengthen Nigeria’s professional reputation but also boost tourism, investment, and international visibility for the country.
About the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF)
The World Public Relations Forum is a biennial event organized by the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management. It serves as the world’s leading platform for sharing insights, trends, and innovations in public relations and communication.
Past editions have been hosted in London, Madrid, Toronto, Oslo, and Nairobi, among other global cities. The 2026 edition in Nigeria marks a historic return of the event to West Africa, further cementing the continent’s role in shaping the global communication landscape.
About the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR)
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations is the professional body responsible for regulating and developing the practice of public relations in Nigeria. Chartered by law, the NIPR promotes excellence, ethical conduct, and strategic communication across public and private sectors.
Through continuous professional development, advocacy, and international collaboration, NIPR continues to position Nigeria as a regional leader in communication management and a trusted voice in global public relations.
In Pictures:
(R-L) Irene Lungu, Chair, African Region, Global Alliance Board; Bradly Howland, President, PRISA; Dr. Ike Neliaku, President, NIPR; and Prof. Renè Benecke, Member, Global Alliance Board of Directors, at the Continental Unveiling in Johannesburg.
