Rivers NIPR

05/08/2026

05/08/2026

Tomorrow is the day!

Join us at the NIPR Rivers Chapter Business Meeting for another opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to the growth of our profession.

📅 Thursday, 6th August 2026
🕑 2:00 PM
📍 POWA Complex, 11 Olumeni Street, opposite EFCC Building

Attend. Engage. Contribute.

See you there!

19/07/2026

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*

*NIPR Rivers Marks 2026 World Public Relations Day, Advocates Strategic Communication for National Development*

The Rivers State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has successfully commemorated the 2026 World Public Relations Day (WPRD) with a resounding call for the adoption of strategic Public Relations as a critical driver of good governance, organizational excellence, citizen engagement, and sustainable national development.

The event, held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the Postgraduate Auditorium of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, attracted over 200 participants drawn from academia, government, the media, public relations practice, the private sector, students, and other stakeholders.
With the global theme, "Golden Age of Strategic Public Relations," the celebration provided an opportunity for practitioners, scholars and communication professionals to examine the growing importance of strategic communication in building trust, strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, and fostering inclusive development.
The ceremony was chaired by the Pro-Chancellor of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Chief Rt. Hon. Chinyere Igwe, Esq., fnimn, Ph.D.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the NIPR Rivers State Chapter, Rev. Francis Asuk, fnipr, described Public Relations as a strategic management function that has become indispensable to effective leadership, organizational success and national development. He urged practitioners to continue upholding professionalism, ethical conduct and excellence while adapting to emerging trends shaping the communication profession.

Delivering the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Ike Neliaku, fnipr address, the Member of the NIPR Governing Council representing Rivers State, Pastor Paulinus Nsirim, fnipr, described the celebration as a defining moment for advancing the Public Relations profession in Nigeria.

He announced that Nigeria would host about 3,000 communication professionals from over 100 countries during the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) scheduled to hold in Abuja from November 15 to 21, 2026, noting that the event presents a unique opportunity to position Nigeria as a global communication hub.

According to the President's message, the Forum, themed "The Golden Age of Strategic Public Relations," reflects the increasing importance of strategic communication in addressing contemporary challenges and shaping sustainable development. He emphasized that Public Relations has evolved beyond publicity into a strategic management discipline that promotes ethical leadership, professional independence, stakeholder engagement and national development.
The President further called for stronger collaboration among governments, educational institutions and communication professionals to deepen professional standards, strengthen ethical practice, expand mentorship opportunities and build strategic partnerships capable of positioning Nigeria as a leading voice in global communication.

The keynote address was delivered by renowned communication scholar, Prof. Kenneth Nweke Fcai, mnipr, aicmc, who challenged Public Relations practitioners to embrace innovation, research, digital transformation and evidence-based communication strategies in responding to the rapidly changing communication environment.

The event also featured an engaging panel discussion and interactive session during which participants examined the opportunities and responsibilities associated with the Golden Age of Strategic Public Relations, particularly within the Nigerian socio-economic environment.

A major highlight of the celebration was the inauguration of the Interim Executive Committee of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Students' Association (NIPRSA), Ignatius Ajuru University of Education Chapter, further demonstrating the Rivers State Chapter's commitment to mentoring the next generation of Public Relations professionals.

The inauguration was performed by the Chairman of the Rivers State Chapter, Rev. Francis Asuk, fnipr, while the oath of office was administered by the Chapter Secretary, Mr. Felix Tamuno, anipr.
The newly inaugurated Interim Executive Committee comprises:
Albert Werelobari – President
Vivian Diseph – Vice President
Gift Onyinyechi Amadi – Secretary
Eric Oboh – Public Relations Officer
Ukwu Gift – Financial Secretary
The Head of the Department of Mass Communication, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Dr. Scholastica Amadi, witnessed the inauguration alongside the Staff Adviser of the association, Mrs. Justina Lekpoabar-Nwoke. The Rivers State Chapter acknowledged Dr. Amadi's support and collaboration, which culminated in the establishment of the IAUE Chapter of NIPRSA as part of the Institute's commitment to institutionalizing mentorship and strengthening professional development among students.

Speaking during the inauguration, the Chairman of the NIPR Students' Mentorship Committee (NIPRSA), Dr. D**e Lawrence Bekwele, fnipr, fnimn, congratulated the interim executive and urged them to provide exemplary leadership while promoting professionalism, ethical conduct and continuous learning among members.

At the end of the event, participants adopted a communiqué reaffirming that Strategic Public Relations remains central to organizational effectiveness, economic growth and national development. Among other resolutions, participants called on governments and organizations to engage only certified NIPR practitioners in managing public communication, institutionalize transparency in governance, integrate Public Relations professionals into strategic decision-making, strengthen mentorship programmes, promote research and digital competencies, encourage continuous professional development, and intensify efforts to eliminate quackery within the profession.

The Chairman of the 2026 World Public Relations Day Planning Committee, Barr. Karibi George, fnipr, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the keynote speaker, panelists, sponsors, partners, the management of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, members of the Planning Committee, the media and all participants whose contributions ensured the successful hosting of the event. He called for sustained collaboration towards advancing the ideals of Strategic Public Relations and strengthening professional practice in Rivers State and Nigeria.

The successful hosting of the 2026 World Public Relations Day marks another milestone in the Rivers State Chapter's commitment to advancing professionalism, strengthening stakeholder engagement, promoting ethical communication practice, and mentoring the next generation of Public Relations practitioners. It also reinforces the Chapter's preparedness to host over 2,000 Public Relations professionals from across Nigeria during the 2028 NIPR Garden City Conference in Port Harcourt, while reaffirming its commitment to contributing meaningfully to the advancement of the Public Relations profession in Nigeria and the global community.

Signed
Ayodeji Emmanuel Afelumo, anipr
Public Relations Officer
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR)
Rivers State Chapter

17/07/2026

*COMMUNIQUÉ OF THE RIVERS STATE CHAPTER OF THE NIGERIAN INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS (NIPR)*

Issued at the End of the 2026 World Public Relations Day Celebration held at the Postgraduate Auditorium, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, on Thursday, July 16, 2026.

The Rivers State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) successfully hosted the 2026 World Public Relations Day Celebration on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the Postgraduate Auditorium, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt.

The event, themed "Golden Age of Strategic Public Relations," was chaired by the Pro-Chancellor and chairman of the governing council of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Chief Rt. Hon. Chinyere Igwe, Esq., Ph.D, fnimn.

The celebration attracted about 300 participants drawn from academia, the public relations profession, government institutions, the media, the private sector, students, and other critical stakeholders.

Following the keynote address delivered by Prof. Kenneth Nweke mnipr, fcai, aicmc, a panel discussion, and an interactive question-and-answer session, participants made the following observations and resolutions.

*OBSERVATIONS*
Participants observed that:

Public Relations has become increasingly strategic in shaping organizational success, strengthening stakeholder relationships, promoting good governance, and supporting sustainable national development.

Effective governance and policy implementation are enhanced when communication is transparent, timely, truthful, and professionally managed.

The rapidly evolving communication environment requires Public Relations practitioners to continually acquire digital, research, analytical, and strategic communication competencies.

Young professionals and students require structured mentorship and practical exposure to prepare them for ethical and professional practice.
Despite the legal recognition of Public Relations practice in Nigeria, the activities of unqualified practitioners continue to undermine the credibility and integrity of the profession.

*RESOLUTIONS*
Accordingly, participants resolved as follows:

*Organizational Efficiency and Economic Development*
Strategic Public Relations is central to organizational efficiency and national productivity. It contributes significantly to economic development by enhancing stakeholder confidence and attracting investment.
Government and institutions at all levels should therefore engage only certified practitioners registered with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in the management of public communication.

*Transparency and Public Policy*
Public policies achieve greater acceptance and impact when citizens understand their objectives and perceive transparency in their implementation. Governments at all levels should institutionalize transparency, truth, accountability, and honesty in policy formulation, communication, and implementation.

*Mentorship and Capacity Building*

Students and emerging Public Relations professionals should be intentionally mentored, trained, and equipped with relevant knowledge and practical skills to facilitate seamless transition into professional practice.
Leadership and Strategic Role of Public Relations
Public Relations practitioners should be recognized as strategic management professionals and integrated into leadership and decision-making structures within organizations.

*Research and Analytics*
Public Relations practitioners should strengthen their competencies in digital communication, research, data analytics, and evidence-based strategic communication to remain effective in the contemporary communication environment.

*Continuous Professional Development*
Public Relations practitioners should embrace continuous professional development to remain relevant, innovative, and responsive to the changing dynamics of the profession in this Golden Age of Strategic Public Relations.

*Professional Standards and Quackery*
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations should intensify efforts to eliminate quackery, enforce professional standards, and safeguard the integrity and credibility of Public Relations practice in Nigeria.

*CONCLUSION*

The Rivers State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations reaffirmed its commitment to promoting professionalism, ethical practice, strategic communication, and continuous capacity development. Participants called on governments, corporate organizations, educational institutions, and communication professionals to embrace strategic Public Relations as a critical driver of organizational excellence, citizen engagement, and sustainable national development.

Communique Drafting Committee
Dr. Boma Waribor, mnipr
Chairman,
Mrs. Praise Iwor, anipr
Secretary
Mr. Joseph Edung, anipr
Member

Signed:
Ayodeji Emmanuel Afelumo
PRO
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations
Rivers Chapter

15/07/2026

News Release
*NIPR Rivers Strengthens Partnership with IAUE Ahead of World Public Relations Day 2026*

As part of ongoing stakeholder engagement ahead of the 2026 World Public Relations Day (WPRD), the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Barr. Karibi George, fnipr, led members of the committee on a courtesy visit to the Dean, Faculty of Humanities, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Prof. Ibiere Ken-Maduaku. The team also inspected the proposed venue for the 2026 World Public Relations Day celebration.

Although the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Okechukwu Onuchukwu, was unavoidably absent during the visit, Barr. Karibi George, fnipr, commended him for his ongoing reforms and innovations at the university. He described the Vice-Chancellor as a worthy ambassador of quality education whose visionary leadership continues to position IAUE as an institution capable of hosting a world-class World Public Relations Day celebration.

In her remarks, Prof. Ibiere Ken-Maduaku reaffirmed the Faculty's commitment to the successful hosting of WPRD 2026. She also called for deeper collaboration between the Faculty and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to advance academic and professional development, including the proposed elevation of the Department of Mass Communication to a Faculty of Communication and Media Studies and induction of some members of staff into the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.

The NIPR Rivers State Chapter, under the leadership of Rev. Francis Asuk, fnipr, reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with the University, not only towards the successful hosting of World Public Relations Day 2026 but also in professional development of members of staff and students.

Ayodeji Emmanuel Afelumo, anipr
Public Relations Officer
NIPR Rivers State Chapter

14/07/2026

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Rivers Chapter to Host World Public Relations Day 2026 at Ignatius Ajuru University
Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Rivers State Chapter, has concluded arrangements to host the 2026 edition of World Public Relations Day on Thursday, 16 July 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Post graduate hall of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Rivers state.

The event, themed "The Golden Age of Strategic Public Relations," will bring together public relations professionals, communication experts, policymakers, academics, corporate executives, government officials, media practitioners, students, development partners, and other stakeholders to examine the evolving role of strategic public relations in fostering trust, strengthening institutions, and driving sustainable development.

According to the Chairman of the 2026 World Public Relations Day Planning Committee, Barr. Karibi George fnipr, the celebration underscores the importance of strategic public relations in promoting ethical communication, strengthening stakeholder engagement, protecting institutional reputation, and advancing national development through effective communication practice.

The Chairman of the Occasion is Chief Hon. Chinyere Igwe, Esq., PhD, fnimn, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, while the Vice Chancellor, Professor Okechukwu Onuchukwu, will serve as the Chief Host. The Keynote Address will be delivered by Professor Kenneth Nweke, mnipr, a distinguished scholar and public relations practitioner. The Host is the Chapter Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Rivers chapter, Rev. Francis Asuk fnipr.

The Institute invites all Public Relations practitioners, Communication and media professionals, members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria, advertising practitioners, corporate organisations, government institutions, educational institutions, religious and faith-based organisations, civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations, students, and the general public to participate in this landmark event.

Participation is free, and interested participants are encouraged to attend early to complete on-site registration.

The Rivers State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations remains committed to promoting professionalism, ethical standards, and excellence in public relations practice while creating platforms for meaningful dialogue on contemporary communication issues.

Signed:
Ayodeji Emmanuel Afelumo, anipr
Public Relations Officer
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Rivers State Chapter

10/07/2026

WELCOME TO JULY
Welcome to the Second Half of 2026.

Dear Esteemed PCs,
Welcome to the second half of the year.
I wish to Welcome all our new members inducted into the institute. You have started an exciting journey of professionalism and fulfilment.

As we begin this next half of the year, let us renew our commitment to professionalism, ethical practice, and excellence in advancing the public relations profession.

I warmly encourage every member to actively participate in our forthcoming programmes:
The World Public Relations Day celebration, scheduled for Thursday, 16 July 2026 holding at the Ignatius Ajuru University. Your presence and contributions will be of immense value as we join colleagues around the world in celebrating our profession.

I encourage all members and communications professionals to register and attend the Second Edition of the Rivers Public Relations Week, RPRW holding in September 2026. a landmark event that will further showcase the strength, relevance, and impact of the NIPR in Rivers State and the Niger Delta. This year's edition promises to be rich in building consensus, and the capacity of PR professionals to deliver value in our context.

Please ensure that you are up to date in your financial responsibility to the institute.

The World Public Relations Forum WPRF Abuja 2026 is coming, 15-21 Nov. It is the world's largest PR and Communications Mgt forum hosted by Nigeria.

Have you registered?. Pls do so if you have not.

Happy New Month and a fulfilling Second Half of 2026!

Rev. Francis Asuk, fnipr
Chairman, NIPR Rivers State Chapter

30/06/2026

You're Invited!

Join us for the NIPR Rivers Chapter Business Meeting as we gather to engage, network, learn, and contribute to the advancement of the public relations profession.

Be part of insightful discussions, professional development, and meaningful interactions with colleagues and stakeholders.

📅 Date: Thursday, 2nd July, 2026
🕑 Time: 2:00 PM
📍 Venue: Police Officers' Wives Association (POWA) Complex, Olumeni Street, opposite EFCC Building, Port Harcourt.

Your presence and participation will make the meeting even more impactful. We look forward to welcoming you.

See you there!

11/06/2026

*NIPR Rivers State Chapter Celebrates Amaopusenibo Bobo Sofiri Brown at 75*

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Rivers State Chapter, has joined family, friends, professional colleagues, and well-wishers across Nigeria and beyond in celebrating the 75th birthday of one of the most distinguished icons of the public relations profession, Amaopusenibo Bobo Sofiri Brown, JP, FNIPR.

In a congratulatory message, the Chairman of NIPR Rivers State Chapter, Rev. Francis Asuk, FNIPR, described Amaopusenibo Brown as a towering figure whose contributions to journalism, public relations, strategic communication, and national development have left an enduring legacy worthy of celebration.

According to Rev. Asuk, "At 75, Amaopusenibo Bobo Sofiri Brown remains a shining example of professional excellence, integrity, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to nation-building. His remarkable career has inspired generations of communication professionals and elevated the standards of public relations practice in Nigeria."

A former President and Chairman of the Governing Council of NIPR, former Chairman of NIPR Rivers State Chapter, former Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, and current Chairman of the NIPR Board of Fellows, Amaopusenibo Brown has distinguished himself as a consummate professional, mentor, institution builder, and advocate of ethical communication practice.

His accomplishments span journalism, corporate communication, stakeholder relations, reputation management, and strategic consultancy.
Through his leadership at GRAIN Consulting Limited and his numerous interventions in community and national development initiatives, he has continued to demonstrate the transformative power of strategic communication in fostering progress and social impact.

The chapter particularly commended his role in mentoring young practitioners, advancing professional standards within NIPR, promoting the "Marketing Brand Nigeria" initiative, and championing innovative projects that have positively impacted communities, including the internationally recognized Opobo International Boat Racing and Regatta Festival.

"As we celebrate this milestone birthday, we honour a man whose life has been dedicated to service, professionalism, and excellence. His wisdom, courage, and commitment to the advancement of public relations have earned him a revered place in the history of our profession," Rev. Asuk stated.

The Rivers State Chapter of NIPR wishes Amaopusenibo Bobo Sofiri Brown continued good health, divine grace, happiness, and many more years of impactful service to humanity, the public relations profession, Rivers State, and Nigeria.

*Happy 75th Birthday to a true icon, mentor, and statesman of Public Relations*.

Signed:
Ayodeji Emmanuel Afelumo
Public Relations Officer
Rivers Chapter

03/06/2026

Be our guest. Invitation is open to intending members, find your way to the venue tomorrow