Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State has been conferred with the Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in recognition of his service to the state and the nation.
Speaking at the investiture ceremony at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna, NIPR National President Dr. Ike Neliaku said the institute applies strict criteria in selecting individuals worthy of bearing its brand.
“We are very careful about those who wear the NIPR brand,” he said, adding that honourees must demonstrate value to citizens, the nation, and their communities.
“From our record, Your Excellency, you have met those requirements. That is why the entire council of the institute from across Nigeria is here,” Neliaku said.
He commended the governor for infrastructural development, citing the ongoing reconstruction of Sokoto Road leading to the Government House, last expanded in 1999.
According to him, Sani is not only rehabilitating but fully reconstructing the road after more than two decades of neglect.
Neliaku explained that while state governors are statutory patrons of the institute, not all are accorded honours due to the high standards required.
“Once you wear our brand, you become an icon of reputation, and we stand with you,” he said, adding that the fellowship remains with the recipient beyond their tenure in office.
The NIPR president also disclosed that Nigeria will host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), with over 120 countries expected to participate, alongside the 37th conference of the African Public Relations Association from Nov. 15 to 21 in Abuja.
He revealed that President Bola Tinubu had accepted to serve as Chief Host of the forum and named Sani an Ambassador of the WPRF, granting him international recognition.
Responding, Sani thanked the institute for the honour, describing it as a call to greater responsibility.
“I accept this recognition with humility. It is a call to remain steadfast in promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical communication in public service,” he said.
The governor also stated that Kaduna State is ready to host the 3rd NIPR Week, calling it an opportunity to promote national dialogue and inclusive development.
