NIPR: Strategic Public Relations Will Bolster Institutional Resilience
By Omolabake Fasogbon
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Lagos State Chapter has described strategic public relations as a key driver of institutional resilience, arguing that stakeholder engagement remains indispensable to strengthen governance and sustainable development.
The institute reiterated this at the grand finale of the PR Fest 2026 in Lagos, recently.
The event convened communication professionals, security experts, policymakers, academics and corporate leaders who examined the role of communication in building stronger institutions and public confidence.
Speaking at the function, Chairman of NIPR Lagos, Dr. Samuel Ayetutu, regarded communication as a pillar of national development, noting that trust remains essential to effective institutions and public cooperation.
He observed that security discussions often focus largely on personnel and operations, with less attention on public perception and confidence.
This he said has affected citizens’ willingness to support government initiatives.
“Security is often discussed in terms of arms, personnel and operations. Rarely is it discussed in terms of communication, perception and trust. Yet trust is the foundation upon which every security effort ultimately stands or falls,” Ayetutu said.
Delivering a keynote address, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu reiterated that the influence of public relations in addressing emerging security and governance challenges.
He said rebuilding institutional credibility requires transparency, accountability, evidence-based communication and stronger engagement with citizens.
He called for a strengthened collaboration among government, the media and communication professionals.
“Strategic public relations replaces one-way institutional communication with transparent, two-way engagement that builds public confidence and transforms citizens from passive observers into active partners in safeguarding national security,” he said.
