The unveiling took place during the Chapter's Monthly Meeting and PR Clinic held on June 4, 2026, at the Eko FM Multipurpose Hall, bringing together public relations professionals and stakeholders from across the communications industry.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Lagos State Chapter of NIPR, Samuel Ayetutu, described Lagos PRFest as one of the chapter’s most important professional initiatives, designed to create a platform for dialogue, learning and collaboration among communication experts, policymakers, business leaders, academics, students and other stakeholders.
According to Ayetutu, the 2026 edition comes at a crucial time when effective communication has become increasingly important in addressing societal challenges and strengthening public confidence in institutions.
He explained that this year's theme reflects the growing need for strategic communication in promoting national unity, fostering social cohesion and building trust between governments, organisations and citizens.
“Public relations practitioners have a crucial role to play in fostering trust, promoting responsible communication and strengthening the relationship between institutions and the public. PRFest 2026 will provide a unique opportunity for stakeholders to collectively examine these responsibilities and contribute to national development.”
The NIPR chairman also encouraged members of the institute and communication professionals nationwide to actively participate in the festival, describing it as a valuable platform for professional development, mentorship, networking and industry engagement.
Providing an update on preparations for the event, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Bolaji Abimbola, said organisers are working intensively to ensure the festival delivers meaningful outcomes and memorable experiences for participants.
He assured members that arrangements were progressing smoothly and that every effort was being made to stage an event that would meet the expectations of practitioners and stakeholders alike.
A major highlight of the unveiling was the official presentation of the festival theme and programme schedule for the week-long event, which is set to run from July 3 to July 9, 2026.
The theme for Lagos PRFest 2026 is:
“Security, Nation Building and Public Trust: Fostering Collective Responsibility through Strategic Public Relations”
Organisers say the theme was carefully selected to address contemporary national issues, particularly the growing importance of public trust and responsible communication in tackling security concerns and promoting sustainable development.
The festival will feature a diverse lineup of activities designed to engage practitioners, students and stakeholders from different sectors. Planned events include:
- Sports and Fitness Event
- PR Mentorship and Leadership Clubs Launch
- Practitioners’ Hangout and African Night
- Media Tour of Lagos
- Annual Conference Lecture
- Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The combination of professional, educational and social activities is expected to provide participants with opportunities to exchange ideas, strengthen professional networks and gain deeper insights into emerging trends within the communications industry.
The Lagos State Chapter of NIPR has extended an open invitation to public relations professionals, corporate organisations, government institutions, students and members of the public to participate in the festival.
According to the organisers, Lagos PRFest 2026 is expected to further elevate the public relations profession by encouraging constructive conversations around national security, public trust, ethical communication and collective responsibility.
As strategic communication continues to play an increasingly critical role in shaping public perception and strengthening institutions, the chapter believes the festival will serve as a timely platform for stakeholders to explore practical solutions that support nation-building and sustainable development.
With preparations already underway, expectations are high that Lagos PRFest 2026 will reinforce the importance of public relations as a tool for fostering trust, promoting accountability and driving positive social change across Nigeria.