FG Ready To Host 2026 World Public Relations Forum As Over 126 Countries Confirm Participation

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its readiness to host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), with delegates from more than 126 countries and representatives of major international institutions expected to attend the global event scheduled for November 15–22 in Nigeria.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance on Wednesday during a world press conference in Abuja, ahead of the Forum, which will have President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Chief Host.
Idris described Nigeria’s selection to host the global gathering alongside the 37th African Public Relations Association (APRA) Conference as a major milestone and an opportunity to strengthen the country’s position in international communication discourse.
He expressed appreciation to the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management and APRA for entrusting Nigeria with the responsibility, noting that the country is the first in West Africa and the second in Africa to host the WPRF.
According to the Minister, the Forum’s theme, “Responsible Communication: The Voice of the World,” is particularly relevant at a time when digital platforms, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are transforming information management and creating challenges involving misinformation, disinformation and declining public trust.
He urged public relations practitioners to uphold truth, accuracy, transparency and professional ethics, stressing that their responsibilities should extend beyond reputation management and institutional promotion to protecting the public interest.
Idris also highlighted the Federal Government’s support for the establishment of the UNESCO Category 2 International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) in Abuja.
He explained that the institute would help equip Nigerians, especially young people, with the necessary skills to identify misleading information and responsibly navigate the digital environment.
The Minister further emphasised the need for government communication to be a two-way process, involving not only the explanation of policies and programmes but also listening to citizens, addressing their concerns and providing credible information.
He disclosed that the Ministry was collaborating with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and other relevant institutions to ensure effective coordination of protocol, security, logistics, hospitality and stakeholder engagement for the event.
Idris assured international delegates of Nigeria’s hospitality and readiness, encouraging them to explore the country’s cultural heritage and economic opportunities.
Earlier, NIPR President, Dr Ike Neliaku, commended the Minister for his support during Nigeria’s successful bid and preparations for the Forum.
Neliaku recalled that Idris had instructed the hosting team to secure the event for Nigeria, noting that the directive provided the motivation needed to achieve the milestone.
Also speaking, APRA Secretary-General, Dr Omoniyi P. Ibietan, described the simultaneous hosting of the WPRF and the 37th APRA Conference as a historic opportunity for Africa to strengthen its collective voice in global communication.
He stressed the importance of continental unity, saying Africa must speak with one voice in shaping international communication policies and practices.
Similarly, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, Professor Justin Green, disclosed that more than 126 countries were expected at the gathering.
He added that representatives of the United Nations, World Bank, African Union and European Commission would also participate.
Green commended President Tinubu and Minister Idris for their support, describing the Minister’s commitment as instrumental to bringing the international event to Nigeria.
The press conference was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Dr Binyerem C. Ukaire; Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace; Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority, Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos; and other heads of government agencies and senior officials.