By Hussaina Yakubu
Nigeria is taking centre 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 emphasized the theme of the conference: “From Policy Paper to Public Plate.”
He highlighted 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 that affects communities across Nigeria and Africa.”
“By engaging both policymakers and farmers, we are closing the gap between policy design and implementation”, Neliaku said.
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).
According to him, 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.
“We have no other country than Nigeria. Our goal is to put our best foot forward and showcase our capacity for leadership in Africa and beyond.”
Dr Chitsunge, the CEO of Elpasso Farms in South Africa, underscored the challenges facing agriculture in Africa, 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 highlighted 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 emphasised.
Mr Arik Karani, President of the African Communications Association, commended Nigeria’s recent improvements in governance and efficiency.
Recounting his previous frustrating experience 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 News Agency of Nigeria
