Dr. Ike Neliaku, President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), emphasized the vital role of effective communication in successful leadership. Speaking at the inauguration of the project implementation committee for Nigeria’s first Public Relations and Leadership University (PRLU), Dr. Neliaku highlighted that public relations is essential for effective leadership.
He stated, “Leaders who succeed must master the art of communication and relationship-building. Effective public relations and leadership are intertwined—both require research and strategic thinking. You cannot separate leadership from communication or communication from leadership.”
The PRLU, set to be established in Nasarawa State, aims to address critical skills gaps, improve Nigeria’s global reputation, promote ethical leadership, and contribute to national development and transformation.
During the inauguration, former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana, emphasized the importance of strategic leadership in maintaining academic excellence. He stressed that the university should be accessible via multiple transport routes and should be located in a prominent and scenic area.
Professor Gana also underscored the necessity of upholding high academic standards, warning against mediocrity. He highlighted the university’s role as a hub for innovation and impactful research and emphasized that faculty promotions should be based on academic merit rather than connections.