Abuja: Gov. Agbu Kefas of Taraba has commended the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) for amplifying the voices of women and promoting balance, equity, and empowerment through communication. Kefas gave the commendation at the 2026 NIPR International Women’s Day celebration held on Monday in Abuja. The event, with the theme: ‘Communicate to Balance: Gain Equity, Empower Women,’ was organised by NIPR in collaboration with the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the governor linked the theme of the event to the story of creation in the Holy Book, stressing the importance of communication in achieving balance and societal progress. He said communication played a vital role in fostering understanding, cooperation, and development in society. Kefas also appreciated the leadership of the institute for promoting inclusiveness and encouraging women’s participation in governance and nation-building.
In his welcome address, the National Coordinator of NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said the theme was relevant in today’s complex information and security environment. According to him, communication and narrative construction can either deepen divisions or build bridges of understanding and trust. He emphasized the need to create more space for women’s leadership and participation in governance, security, and national development.
Also speaking, the President of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, called for greater recognition of women’s leadership roles in shaping society and global values. Neliaku noted that empowering women strengthened institutions and enhanced progress across sectors including public service, media, corporate leadership, and civil society. He also disclosed that Nigeria would host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum in Abuja in November, expected to attract more than 3,000 participants from over 126 countries under the Global Alliance.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that other speakers at the event urged women to participate actively in politics and national development. They included the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim; the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala-Usman; and the wife of the Niger governor, Hajiya Fatima Bago, among others.