The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has conferred its prestigious Fellowship on Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Minister of Defence, Gen Musa Gwabe for his contributions to strategic communication, leadership, and national development.
Also dignitaries that were Honored included Mr. Arik Karani, President, African Public Relations Association, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, Registrar-General, JAMB and Prof. Suleiman Elias Bogoro, Former Executive Secretary, TETFund .
The honour, one of NIPR’s highest distinctions, was conferred on Thursday, April 23, 2026. The Institute said it is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional influence in advancing public relations standards in Nigeria and beyond.
NIPR said Goronyo’s conferment underscores his efforts in promoting transparency, strengthening government-citizen engagement, and institutionalising effective communication in infrastructure delivery.
His approach, it noted, aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises inclusive governance, accountability, and accelerated infrastructure development.
The Minister has consistently emphasised “clear, proactive, and responsible communication” in executing key projects nationwide, NIPR said, adding that this has enhanced public trust and ensured Nigerians remain informed about government initiatives.
Accepting the honour, Goronyo described it as “both a recognition of service and a renewed call to greater responsibility.”
He called on NIPR to leverage its platforms to promote public awareness of the Tinubu administration’s policies, programmes, and achievements, particularly in infrastructure under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The Institute, as the nation’s foremost professional communication body, has a critical responsibility to effectively inform the public about ongoing infrastructural projects, policy reforms, and the tangible impact of government efforts,” he said.
Goronyo reiterated that ethical and professional communication remains “indispensable in building public confidence in institutions and sustaining development outcomes.” He also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting professionalism and global best practices in public relations.
*Other Honorary Fellow-Designates*
NIPR also honoured other distinguished personalities as Honorary Fellow-Designates for their impact on governance, education, security, traditional leadership, and media.
Other awardees include HRH Pastor Samson Gamu Yare, Chun Mada III, Prof. Samson Duna, DG, NBRRI , Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, VC, Nasarawa State University, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, DG, NIPSS , Chief Marcel Anyalechi, GCEO, DAAR Communications Plc, Prof. Vincent C. Anigbogu, Adviser to Uganda Govt
Also Comrade Audu Titus Amba, President, NUT, High Chief Engr. Johnny O. Chukwu, Chairman, Doveland International School, – Prof. Paschal Onyi Oguno, Former Dean, Faculty of Law, COOU
NIPR said the selection reflects “a broad recognition of excellence, integrity, and dedication to advancing communication as a strategic instrument for national growth.”
