The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has intensified preparations for Nigeria’s hosting of the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), engaging members of the diplomatic community in Abuja ahead of the global communication event.
The forum is scheduled to take place in Abuja from November 15 to 21, with organisers expecting about 3,000 delegates from 126 countries. The engagement with Ambassadors, High Commissioners and other members of the diplomatic community was held recently at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.
The briefing brought together representatives of the diplomatic corps, NIPR officials and other stakeholders to discuss Nigeria’s readiness to host what organisers describe as the world’s largest gathering of public relations and communication professionals.
Chairman of the WPRF National Planning Committee, Suleiman Haruna, presented an overview of the preparations and major activities planned for the week-long gathering, which is themed “Responsible Communication: The Voice of the World.”
President Bola Tinubu will serve as the chief host of the forum, which is being organised by the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management in partnership with the African Public Relations Association (APRA).
Nigeria’s hosting of the WPRF will mark a significant milestone for the country and the continent, as it will become the first African nation to host the global forum. Previous editions have been held in countries including Mexico, India and Germany.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema is expected to deliver the keynote address, while President Tinubu is also scheduled to receive a Lifetime Award of Excellence in Reforms during the gathering.
Foreign Affairs Ministry Pledges Support
Speaking at the diplomatic briefing, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the ministry attaches considerable importance to international platforms that promote mutual understanding, strengthen partnerships and provide opportunities to showcase Nigeria’s capabilities on the global stage.
Ebienfa also highlighted the important role of the diplomatic community in supporting the success of the forum, particularly in strengthening international participation and promoting Nigeria as a destination capable of hosting major global events.
The engagement with diplomats is therefore expected to help broaden awareness of the WPRF among Nigeria’s international partners while encouraging greater participation from countries represented in Abuja.
NIPR: Forum Is a National Project
President of the NIPR, Ike Neliaku, described the WPRF as a national project that goes beyond the institute and its professional membership.
According to him, the scale of the event provides Nigeria with an opportunity to demonstrate its expertise in communications while also showcasing the country’s cultural heritage, hospitality and capacity to convene international stakeholders.
The WPRF will also be accompanied by other major events during the week, including the 37th Conference of the African Public Relations Association and the African Ministers of Information Roundtable.
Organisers believe the convergence of these events will provide an opportunity for public relations practitioners, policymakers, government officials, academics and other communication professionals to exchange ideas on the evolving role of strategic communication in addressing global challenges.
Abuja Declaration, Jollof Festival on Programme
One of the major expected outcomes of the forum is the signing of the Abuja Declaration on Responsible Communication.
The proposed declaration is expected to provide a framework and agenda for the global public relations profession over the next decade, particularly around the growing importance of ethical, responsible and credible communication.
With misinformation, digital disruption and declining public trust increasingly shaping public discourse, the forum is expected to provide a platform for professionals and policymakers to examine how communication can contribute to greater transparency, accountability and social cohesion.
The week-long programme will also feature cultural activities designed to give international visitors an opportunity to experience Nigeria beyond its professional and business environment.
Among the planned activities is the maiden Nigeria Jollof Rice Festival, which is expected to serve about 10,000 people. The festival is intended to showcase Nigerian cuisine and cultural heritage while providing an informal platform for delegates and visitors to connect with the country’s traditions.
With delegates expected from more than 100 countries, organisers see the 2026 WPRF as both a professional gathering and an opportunity for Nigeria to strengthen its international profile.
The hosting of the forum is consequently being positioned as a chance to promote responsible communication while demonstrating Nigeria’s ability to convene global conversations and provide an engaging platform for international collaboration.