Participants at the 2026 Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW), organized by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), have called for improved policy communication, coordinated stakeholder engagement, and stronger public trust systems to tackle food insecurity and promote sustainable national development.
Event Overview
The event, held in Kaduna State under the theme "Food Security: From Policy Paper to Public Plate – The Imperative of Strategic Communication," brought together government officials, communication professionals, development partners, traditional institutions, private sector leaders, youth groups, academics, and international stakeholders.
Key Speeches
Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the importance of effective communication in governance, stating that policies succeed only when citizens understand and trust them. Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani called for stronger integration of strategic public relations into governance and development communication.
Keynote Address
In his keynote address, Brylyne Chitsunge, Chief Executive Officer of Elpasso Farms South Africa, challenged African leaders and communication professionals to bridge the gap between policy and implementation through strategic communication and stakeholder engagement.
Outcomes
The week recorded significant outcomes, including the adoption of the Kaduna Declaration on Food Security Communication and the Kaduna Declaration on Peace Communication for Community Harmony and Development. These declarations aim to strengthen collaboration between government, traditional institutions, communication professionals, and communities.
Traditional Rulers Engagement
Pre-conference engagements with traditional rulers drew national attention as thirty-five traditional rulers across Kaduna State endorsed the Kaduna Peace Model as a framework for promoting peace, security, and development through community-based communication structures.
Throughout the week, conversations consistently reinforced the idea that food security is not only an agricultural issue but also a communication, trust, behavioral, and governance challenge. Cultural diplomacy activities and networking engagements also took place.
Chairman of the National Planning Committee, Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, commended the Kaduna State government, partners, delegates, volunteers, and stakeholders for contributing to the success of the Week.
