The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has unveiled plans to convene a National Royal Dialogue for traditional rulers across the country, focusing on national reputation management and values restoration.

Dr. Ike Neliaku, President and Chairman of Council of the NIPR, made this announcement on Monday during a Public Relations Stakeholders forum with Royal fathers in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital. The forum was part of activities marking the weeklong NIPR 2025 celebrations.

Neliaku emphasized the historical significance of traditional rulers in community development and peacebuilding, noting the need to return to a system where they work collaboratively with government to foster development.

"From time, it was the Royal fathers that gave direction to leadership, they brought development to their kingdoms before even the government of today came. So, we need to go back to the days where our royal fathers will continue to bring development in partnership with government at the grassroots," Neliaku stated.

The initiative will commence in Akwa Ibom State, where the idea was first conceived, with the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs partnering with NIPR to drive the process.

Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, President General of the Akwa Ibom Traditional Rulers Council, commended the NIPR for including traditional rulers in their event and selecting Akwa Ibom as the host state. He highlighted that one of the primary roles of traditional rulers is to disseminate information about government programs to grassroots communities.

"Day in day out things are changing, we are no longer analog, systems have changed and we have to change as well. I believe very strongly that today the council will teach us new ways of managing information so that we will be able to pass this information to the people," Etuk remarked.

Frank Archibong, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, revealed that successive Akwa Ibom governments have ensured that traditional institutions comprise educated and enlightened individuals who understand contemporary dynamics. He noted that the NIPR initiative aims to equip traditional rulers with public relations tools that, when properly deployed, would enhance grassroots governance, foster peace, and improve crisis management.

The resource person at the event, Rev. Francis Asuk, emphasized the importance of relationship management skills for traditional rulers. He advocated for training programs to help them deploy public relations strategies effectively in conflict resolution and community development advocacy.

"Royal fathers should be trained on balancing their traditional and modern roles. You must know how to write to compel the government to act in your favor and how to deploy your public relations skills to resolve conflict and douse tension in your kingdoms," Asuk advised.

The National Royal Dialogue is expected to be a significant step toward enhancing the role of traditional institutions in Nigeria's governance structure and national development agenda.