The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) has called on the Federal Government to establish an inter-ministerial committee to support the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in planning and hosting the World Public Relations Forum scheduled to take place in Nigeria from November 15 to 21, 2026.
BON Chairman, Tony Akiotu, made the appeal on Friday in Abuja while receiving the leadership of NIPR. He described the forum as a national opportunity to reshape global perceptions of Nigeria and strengthen the country’s reputation capital.
Akiotu commended NIPR for securing the hosting rights for the 2026 WPRF, describing the achievement as beneficial to both Nigeria and the African continent.
“The NIPR has done Nigeria and indeed Africa a lot of good by attracting the hosting right for the 2026 WPRF to this country. It is left for us as a people to see it as our collective project, an opportunity to present the true image of Nigeria to the rest of the world,” he said.
He noted that the proposed inter-ministerial committee should comprise relevant ministries and agencies that would work with NIPR to ensure the successful organisation of the global event.
“We now have the opportunity to correct false narratives being portrayed about Nigeria — narratives that do not represent us. We can utilise the WPRF as a great platform to tell our story. I am calling on the Federal Government to accept the responsibility this has thrown up and set up an inter-ministerial committee that will support the planning and execution of this national project,” Akiotu stated.
According to him, the committee would help coordinate efforts to project Nigeria as a safe destination for investment, residence and business, adding that the opportunity should not be taken for granted.
The BON chairman also assured that broadcast media organisations across the country would provide extensive publicity and coverage for the forum. He disclosed that BON members would participate in the week-long event.
In his remarks, NIPR President and Chairman of Council, Ike Neliaku, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between NIPR and BON for nation-building.
Neliaku said a stronger partnership with BON would enhance efforts to present the Nigerian story more effectively and improve the country’s reputation among local and international audiences.
The 2026 WPRF, which has President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Chief Host, is expected to attract public relations professionals, communication experts, policymakers and stakeholders from across the world.