The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has strengthened its global engagement strategy with the appointment of AbdulRasheed Abubakar, chief executive officer of CogniRep Strategies Holding Co, as its international representative and liaison for the World Public Relations Forum 2026.
The announcement was made by NIPR President Ike Neliaku, who charged Abubakar with coordinating international engagement and mobilising participation from key global stakeholders ahead of the forum scheduled to take place in Abuja from November 15 to 21, 2026.
According to the institute, the role places Abubakar at the centre of efforts to deepen Nigeria’s visibility in global communications circles and attract high-level participation from communication professionals, policymakers, academics, and business leaders.
“The appointment reflects confidence in Abubakar’s experience in corporate communications, stakeholder engagement and international advocacy, as well as his ability to deepen global collaboration for the profession,” the institute stated.
Expanding outreach across global markets, with focus on the United States
In practical terms, Abubakar is expected to lead targeted outreach across major international markets, with particular emphasis on the United States, where he will work to secure strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and broad-based participation from industry leaders.
NIPR believes his international exposure and professional network will be instrumental in positioning the Abuja forum as a major global convening for conversations on the future of strategic communication and reputation management.
Abubakar is the founder of CogniRep Strategies Holding Company and also serves as chief executive officer of CABS World TV. His profile further reflects recognition within Nigeria’s diaspora community, having been listed among honourees under the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission’s “Diaspora Icons” initiative, which celebrates Nigerians making impact abroad.
He holds a master’s degree in public relations and corporate communications from Georgetown University in the United States, a credential that the institute says further strengthens his global communication outlook.
Forum positioned as global hub for PR innovation and dialogue
Explaining the rationale behind the appointment, Neliaku said the institute is deliberately positioning the Abuja edition of the World Public Relations Forum as a defining moment for the profession in Africa and beyond.
According to him, Abubakar’s blend of international networks and professional experience makes him particularly suited to support the institute’s ambition of broadening engagement with global stakeholders ahead of the event.
The World Public Relations Forum is expected to attract delegates from across continents, offering a platform for discussions on emerging trends, innovation, and best practices in public relations and strategic communications.
Organisers also emphasise that the event will showcase Nigeria and Africa’s expanding influence in shaping global conversations around leadership, communication, and reputation management.