In a major boost to Nigeria’s economic inclusion agenda, the Federal Government, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR). This pledge was made during the opening ceremony of the Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW 2025) and Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The event, themed “Harnessing Public Relations for Nigeria’s Economic Renaissance,” highlighted the indispensable role of NIPR in shaping public opinion and mobilising citizens towards achieving sustainable economic growth.
Alhaji Idris praised NIPR’s efforts in pushing for ethical reforms within the communications sector, enhancing media literacy, and developing professional capacities nationwide. He described the institute’s role as foundational to national development, stressing that effective communication is key to how policies are understood and implemented.
“Our role as stewards of the national narrative is crucial to how Nigeria is perceived, how policies are understood, and how citizens are engaged in our collective pursuit of economic prosperity as Nigeria rises again,” the minister said.
Highlighting recent economic achievements, Idris noted that Nigeria has attracted over $50 billion in new foreign direct investment commitments. Additionally, remittances from the Nigerian diaspora hit a record $21.9 billion, signaling strong confidence in the country’s future.
The entertainment and creative industries, particularly Nollywood, also contribute significantly, with an estimated ₦730 billion added to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). “These figures represent more than statistics; they tell stories that must be communicated professionally and patriotically,” the minister added.
The National Bureau of Statistics recently reported encouraging trends in inflation. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April 2025 showed a headline inflation rate of 23.71%, a slight decrease from March’s 24.23%. Month-on-month inflation dropped notably by 2.04%, reflecting the positive impact of deliberate policy interventions by President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
“These improvements underscore the effectiveness of sustained government efforts to stabilize the economy,” Idris said, emphasizing the importance of public relations professionals in conveying these achievements to the public accurately.
To streamline and strengthen public communication, the Ministry of Information and National Orientation has developed the National Strategic Communication Framework (NSCF). This blueprint aims to ensure coherence across all public sector messaging, align national campaigns with development goals, and facilitate meaningful two-way communication between the government and Nigerian citizens.
“Public communication must be a tool for economic growth, social cohesion, and national pride,” Idris stated, urging NIPR members to embrace their role as thought leaders and national assets.
NIPR’s activities and campaigns are vital for raising awareness, educating citizens, and encouraging participation in the country’s economic agenda. With the government’s pledge of support, the institute is poised to expand its outreach and impact.
The partnership between the government and NIPR will play a strategic role in addressing challenges such as unemployment, poverty, and social inequality by mobilising Nigerians towards economic empowerment and inclusion.
The Federal Government’s endorsement of NIPR’s role in public relations signals a renewed focus on leveraging effective communication to drive Nigeria’s economic renaissance. As the country strives for inclusive growth, the collaboration between public institutions and communication professionals will be critical in shaping a prosperous future for all Nigerians.