By John Alechenu

The President/ Chairman in Council of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, has said nation building especially in the area of reputation management shouldn’t be left for government officials alone.

He emphasized that everyone has a role to play in shaping Nigeria’s future and promoting responsible communication.

Neliaku said this while playing hosting journalists to a dinner, in Abuja.

He charged journalists to use their professional expertise to promote the benefits of Nigerian’s diversity as well as positive changes being made to position the nation to take its pride of place in the comity of nations.

Neliaku said, “We must work together to build our nation, Nigeria. As public relations professionals, our role is crucial in managing relationships and reputation.

“I urge you to add value to your profession, personalities, and lives. Public relations is a global brand that can be practiced lifelong.”

While speaking on the Institute’s plans for 2026, the President said, “NIPR is launching several initiatives in 2026, including the Nigeria Perception Reputation Survey Report, NIPR Price Awards, and the Nigeria Reputation Summit.

“We will also host the International Women’s Day celebration, Youth Fireside Chat, and the Nigeria Public Relations Week.

“Our goal is to reposition Nigeria and promote responsible communication. We must manage our narratives better and work together to build a stronger nation. Let’s put aside our ethnic and religious differences and focus on our shared Nigerian identity.

“We are bigger than our individual backgrounds, and it’s time we take pride in our nation. Let’s reprogramme ourselves to believe in Nigeria’s potential. We are not the worst country in the world; we just need better leadership and unity.

“I call on all Nigerians to join us in this effort. Let’s work together to build a better Nigeria for all.”

The NIPR President also charged Nigerians to see themselves as their nation’s ambassadors wherever they found themselves, adding that they owe themselves, and by extension, the nation, a duty to showcase the positives that make us the greatest black nation on earth.

He also appealed to stakeholders especially members of the institute to assist his team to “finish strong.”