The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and the Nasarawa State Government have sealed a landmark agreement to establish what will be the world's first tertiary institution dedicated to public relations and leadership studies.
The Memorandum of Understanding for the University of Public Relations and Leadership (UPRL), signed on Monday, July 7, 2025, designates Gudi in Akwanga Local Government Area as the site for the institution.
With endorsement from over 120 member countries of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, the university is scheduled to launch operations in November 2026, coinciding with Nigeria’s hosting of the World Public Relations Forum.
Dr. Ike Neliaku, NIPR President, emphasised the international significance of the project during the signing ceremony at the Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja.
“This is a project being driven by Global Alliance itself. It could have gone to any other country but because of their love for Africa, they brought it here. Then on the account of the strength Nigeria demonstrated ahead of others who are willing to host the university, Global Alliance decided to work with us,” Neliaku explained.
Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, who formally handed over the Conveyance of Approval of Grant of Land, pledged full commitment to ensuring timely commencement of academic activities.
The governor, who highlighted the potential of the institution as a regional hub for talent development, said he was proud that Nasarawa State is host to the institution.
“It will serve as a center for manpower development and capacity building for indigenes of Nasarawa and neighbouring states, positioning Nigeria as a destination for equipping leaders for effective service delivery,” he said.
The university represents a strategic convergence of Nigeria’s educational ambitions and its growing prominence in global public relations leadership.