The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has appealed to public relations professionals to support ongoing government efforts aimed at rebranding Nigeria's reputation to attract foreign investors.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony of the Nigerian Public Relations Week 2025 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Tuesday, Idris emphasized the importance of public relations in advancing President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.

"I urge public relations professionals to key into ongoing efforts and reforms by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration to rebrand the nation's reputation and attract investors into the country," the minister stated.

Idris highlighted that the current administration is making significant strides toward economic recovery, revealing that N1.5 trillion has been allocated to revitalize the Bank of Agriculture within the first two years of President Tinubu's tenure.

The event, themed "Harnessing Public Relations for Nigerian Economic Relations," brought together PR professionals from across the country to discuss strategies for improving Nigeria's image both locally and internationally.

Dr. Ike Neliaku, President and Chairman-in-Council of NIPR, identified ineffective communication as a major leadership challenge in Nigeria. "Lack of effective communication is a major problem of leadership in Nigeria. We can build a prosperous Nigeria, together, if we work collaboratively," he said.

Dr. Neliaku also announced that Nigeria will host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum, an event expected to attract PR practitioners from around the globe.

Representing Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno, Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi emphasized the crucial role of public relations in economic development. "I believe public relations practitioners can work collaboratively with the larger media to market our nation," she remarked.

The event featured posthumous awards to three distinguished Nigerians, including the late LOC Chairman of NPRW25, Dr. Uduak Obot, recognizing their contributions to enhancing Nigeria's reputation.

Additionally, the Nigeria Reputation Management Group's Body of Advisors was inaugurated, with Dr. John Momoh appointed as Chairman, Muhammed Kudu Abubakar as Inaugural Secretary, and Bashiru Adeniyi as Vice Chairman.