In a major national recognition of Kaduna’s steady transformation under Governor Uba Sani, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has awarded Kaduna State the hosting rights for the 2026 Nigeria Public Relations Week.
The event, themed “Food Security: From Policy Papers to Public Plates – The Public Relations Imperatives,” will bring together top communication experts, policymakers, and development actors from across the country to discuss strategic pathways to food security and national cohesion.
The announcement was made by NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku, during a courtesy visit to Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, where he led a high-powered delegation to formally present the hosting rights letter to Senator Uba Sani (CON), Governor of Kaduna State.
Dr. Neliaku explained that Kaduna’s selection followed a rigorous evaluation process, noting that the state stood out for its effective crisis management, restoration of peace, rebuilding of trust among ethno-religious groups, strong infrastructure base, and sustained economic renewal drive.
According to him, “Governor Uba Sani’s administration has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to inclusive governance, transparency, and peacebuilding. Kaduna has become a model in strategic communication and trust restoration — key pillars of our profession.”
During the visit, Governor Uba Sani was also conferred with the honorary title of Grand Patron of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, in recognition of his administration’s strategic communication philosophy and openness in governance.
In his remarks, Governor Uba Sani expressed deep appreciation to the Institute for the double honour, describing the choice of theme as both timely and insightful.
He said: “Kaduna is not only the political capital of Northern Nigeria but also its spiritual capital. We are the most cosmopolitan state in the country. By focusing on food security, the NIPR has shown its deep understanding of national priorities — because you cannot manage reputation without addressing the root causes of insecurity and disharmony.”
The Governor emphasized that his administration’s investments in agriculture, education, health, and social protection are designed to tackle poverty and promote inclusive growth. “In Kaduna State, we are one family,” he declared.
He also highlighted the tangible gains of his government’s peace and development initiatives, noting that the United Kingdom recently upgraded Kaduna’s travel advisory status from Red to Amber, reflecting growing international confidence in the state’s security environment.
“Since we came into office, Kaduna State has not witnessed any ethno-religious crisis. Schools that were closed due to insecurity have been reopened. Farmers have returned to their farms. Investors are coming back. Kaduna is once again a preferred destination for progress and prosperity,” the Governor added.
Governor Uba Sani reaffirmed Kaduna’s full commitment to ensuring the success of the 2026 Public Relations Week, promising maximum state support and collaboration. “This recognition reflects the growing confidence in our state as a center of peace, progress, and inclusive governance,” he said.
He also commended Dr. Ike Neliaku’s visionary leadership of NIPR, lauding the establishment of the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG) as a bold initiative to rebuild Nigeria’s image globally.
“The NIPR has continued to play a vital role in promoting professionalism, ethical communication, and national cohesion. I urge the Institute to sustain its advocacy for truth, transparency, and responsible public engagement — all of which are essential to rebuilding public trust and strengthening democracy,” the Governor stated.
The 2026 Nigeria Public Relations Week is expected to further spotlight Kaduna as a model of peace-driven governance and communication excellence in the country.
