KEY POINTS
-
Nigeria will host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum from November 15 to 22.
-
More than 126 countries and representatives of major international institutions are expected.
-
The forum will focus on responsible communication, misinformation and public trust.
The Federal Government has announced its readiness to host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum, with delegates from more than 126 countries expected to attend the international gathering in Nigeria.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance on Wednesday, November 11, during a press conference in Abuja.
The forum is scheduled to hold from November 15 to 22, with President Bola Tinubu serving as the chief host.
Idris said the event would provide an opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its capacity, strengthen international partnerships and increase its influence in global communication discussions.
He also noted that Nigeria would become the first country in West Africa and the second in Africa to host the World Public Relations Forum.
Forum to address misinformation and public trust
The 2026 gathering will be held under the theme, “Responsible Communication: The Voice of the World.”
Idris said the rapid growth of digital platforms, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies had increased concerns about misinformation, disinformation and declining public trust.
He urged public relations professionals to prioritise truth, accuracy, transparency and ethical standards rather than focusing solely on promoting organisations or managing their reputations.
The minister also stressed that government communication should involve listening to citizens, addressing their concerns and providing reliable information to support informed decisions.
He highlighted the government’s support for establishing the UNESCO Category 2 International Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja, which is expected to equip citizens, particularly young people, with the skills to identify misleading information.
UN, World Bank and AU expected to participate
The President of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, Professor Justin Green, said representatives of major international institutions, including the United Nations, World Bank, African Union and European Commission, were expected at the forum.
He commended President Tinubu and the information minister for supporting Nigeria’s hosting bid.
Meanwhile, the President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Ike Neliaku, praised the Federal Government for its role in securing the hosting rights and preparing for the event.
The Secretary-General of the African Public Relations Association, Omoniyi Ibietan, described the gathering as an opportunity for Africa to strengthen its collective voice and influence global communication discussions.
The World Public Relations Forum will take place alongside the 37th African Public Relations Association Conference, bringing together communication professionals and institutions from across the world.
