The President of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku has called on youths to reject the narrative that Nigeria is an unconducive environment to live in, advising them to always speak good of the country at every engagement.
Dr. Neliaku who gave this advice on Friday at a webinar with Youth and Students Work Team of the forthcoming World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), described Nigeria as the best country on earth with special features that help in actualisation of dreams.
He said the narrative that our nation is not good enough is being spread by those who have programmed the nation to keep falling without failing, but unfortunately for them, the most populous African nation keeps waxing stronger by the day.
"Your future is bright in this country. It is the way you package yourself that the destiny of this nation will smile at you. If you acknowledge that this nation is great, it will be great for you, if you condemn this nation as one of the worst on earth, that is how it will turn out for you. Do not join others to paint our nation black", he advised.
While acknowledging that there are issues, just like other nations face their peculiar challenges, the NIPR boss expressed optimism that with the collective efforts of every citizen, Nigeria would overcome its setbacks.
Dr. Neliaku challenged the young people to use the social media as a tool to amplify millions of Nigeria's positive stories to the world as against talking down on our fatherland.
He said the WPRF slated to hold November next year will also serve as a platform for Nigeria to tell its story.
In his goodwill message, Secretary General of African Public Relations Association (APRA), Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan assured that programmes are being carefully packaged to minister to the needs of youths and students at the 2026 WPRF.
Earlier in his remarks, Chairman of the National Planning Committee of WPRF, Dr. Suleiman Haruna urged the youths to be reputation champions of the nation, assuring that adequate arrangements are being made to ensure their full participation at the WPRF.