The Federal Government of Nigeria has underscored the pivotal role of public relations in reshaping the nation’s global image and countering false narratives.
At the national unveiling of the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) 2026 in Abuja, Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris emphasized the necessity for ethical and truth-based communication strategies.
Minister Idris highlighted that Nigeria has been subjected to coordinated disinformation campaigns, particularly concerning unfounded claims of religious persecution. He asserted, “These false narratives about a so-called genocide against Christians in Nigeria are deliberate attempts to distort facts and weaken our unity. For the record, there is no truth whatsoever in such claims.”
The Minister called upon communication professionals to lead efforts in promoting responsible and fact-based narratives about Nigeria. He stated, “We must deploy the power of public relations built on truth, ethics, and integrity to challenge these damaging single stories about our country.”
In today’s digital era, where misinformation spreads rapidly, Minister Idris emphasized that responsible communication has become a national responsibility. He noted, “Words now travel faster than thought, and opinions often outrun truth,” stressing the importance of communication guided by empathy, honesty, and commitment to the public good.
The Minister linked this call for ethical communication to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on rebuilding trust between the government and citizens through openness and engagement. He added that Nigeria’s hosting of the WPRF in 2026 reflects the country’s growing influence and leadership in promoting communication ethics on the global stage.
Minister Idris commended the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, led by Professor Justin Green, and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), under Dr. Ike Neliaku, for their roles in securing the hosting rights for Nigeria.
