Nigeria is taking center stage in Africa’s public relations and food security sectors as the National Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) launched its 2026 National Public Relations Week (NPRW) in Kaduna.
The week-long event brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and global experts to discuss bridging the gap between policy design and practical implementation.
In his opening address, NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku highlighted the conference theme: “From Policy Paper to Public Plate.” He noted the participation of international experts, including Dr. Brylyne Chitsunge and Mr. Arik Karani, who shared global best practices in agriculture, livestock, and communication.
“We are looking at food security not just as a policy issue, but as a practical challenge affecting communities across Nigeria and Africa,” Neliaku said. “By engaging both policymakers and farmers, we are closing the gap between policy design and implementation.”
Neliaku also announced that Nigeria will host the 37th Conference of the African Public Relations Association in Abuja from November 15 to 21, coinciding with the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF). This marks the first time WPRF will convene in West Africa, highlighting Nigeria’s growing influence on the global stage.
“Nigeria is rising, and the world will see us at the center of responsible communication. Our goal is to put our best foot forward and showcase our leadership in Africa and beyond,” he added.
Dr. Chitsunge, CEO of Elpasso Farms in South Africa, underscored challenges facing African agriculture, including climate change, insurgencies, and rising food prices. “Many policies fail to reach farmers and local communities due to poor communication. Closing this implementation gap is where public relations becomes indispensable,” she said. She also emphasized Nigeria’s vast potential in food production.
“The real obstacle is not a lack of policy, but the gap between planning and implementation. Effective public relations is key to bridging that divide,” she said.
Mr. Arik Karani, President of the African Communications Association, commended Nigeria’s recent improvements in governance and efficiency. Recounting past frustrations with visa processing and airport delays, he said, “This time, visas were approved within 24 hours, and airport processing took only 15 minutes. This is progress, and it reflects what happens when leadership removes barriers rather than creates them.”
The NPRW 2026 event in Kaduna provides a platform for African leaders, communicators, and agricultural experts to collaborate on closing the gap between policy and practice. Discussions will focus on translating well-crafted policies into real outcomes for communities and positioning Nigeria as a continental leader in both agriculture and public relations.
