Nigerian Institute of Public Relations signs Memorandum of Understanding with Nasarawa state government to establish world’s first Public Relations University

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nasarawa State Government to establish University of Public Relations and Leadership (UPRL), to be located in Gudi, Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State

Penpushing reports that Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in a statement on Tuesday, explained that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Monday at an official ceremony in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

The President of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Ike Neliaku said the university will focus exclusively on public relations and leadership, and boasted that it is the first of its kind globally.

Penpushing further reports that Neliaku described the university as a landmark initiative backed by 126 countries under the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management — the global umbrella body for public relations institutions.

“This is not just a Nigerian project; it is a global one,” Mr Neliaku said. “It could have been hosted in any country, but the Global Alliance chose Nigeria because of our demonstrated leadership and commitment’, Neliaku added.

Penpushing also reports that the President stated that the university will serve as a practical solution to Africa’s persistent leadership and governance challenges, stressing that the intention is to train leaders who communicate effectively and govern responsibly, adding that leadership is inseparable from communication.

The Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, who formally handed over the conveyance of land approval for the university site, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the project’s successful implementation.

“To be sited in historic Gudi is a moment that will be remembered. Even before physical structures are completed, this university has already earned the endorsement of 126 countries. That certificate alone weighs more than 85 kilograms’, he said.

Penpushing reports that Sule emphasized that his administration will not treat the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as a mere ceremonial agreement.

“Too often in this country, MOUs are signed and forgotten. Out of over 25 MOUs signed in my first term, only about 25 per cent have been implemented. I want this one to be different. This time, we’re not just signing—we’re handing over land, conducting surveys, and fencing the site’, he said

Penpushing further reports that he explained that funding provisions for the project have been made in the state budget and directed the Commissioner for Lands to ensure swift action on site surveying and perimeter fencing.

The Governor emphasised that a structure should be in place before the arrival of international delegates later this year, declaring that this was not about politics but a legacy which will be sustained

“This is not about politics. It’s about legacy. President Tinubu deserves credit for the fiscal reforms that have enabled states like ours to commit to such transformative projects,” he said.

Penpushing also reports that it is recalled that the vision for the university as a world-class institution was first articulated in September 2024 by former Minister of Information, Jerry Gana, who advised the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) not to compromise on global standards.

The Project Implementation Committee at the National Assembly Complex, Prof Gana speaking at the inauguration, said the global expectation for this initiative is nothing short of excellence

Penpushing reports that Gana underscored the importance of locating the university in an accessible area with strong road, rail, and air connectivity, reinforcing the need for international visibility and ease of access.

The Project Implementation Committee at the National Assembly Complex, stressed the need for innovation and technological leadership, beyond infrastructure urging the university to be a hub for cutting-edge research and digital learning.

‘Do not even start if you are not building a world-class institution. The global expectation for this initiative is nothing short of excellence. Technology is the future, and this university must lead in that space. Equip your staff and students for tomorrow’, he said

Penpushing further reports that the University of Public Relations and Leadership (UPRL), is expected to be formally unveiled in November 2026, when Nigeria hosts the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF).

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