NITDA and NIPR Applaud IMPR’s AI Breakthroughs in Public Relations and Digital Transformation

NITDA and NIPR Praise IMPR for Leading AI Use in Public Relations

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) have recognized Image Merchants Promotion (IMPR) Limited for its pioneering efforts in applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) within public relations. IMPR's commitment to advancing national intellectual growth is also evident through its annual lecture series and publications.

The commendation came from NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa and NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku during the 3rd Economic Confidential Public Lecture and PRNigeria Book Presentation in Abuja. The event brought together policymakers, academics, security officials, PR practitioners, and digital experts.

AI Transforming Public Relations in Nigeria

Director-General Inuwa highlighted IMPR’s innovative use of AI in areas such as audience analysis, media monitoring, content automation, event management, and crisis detection. He emphasized that AI offers Nigeria a unique chance to bypass traditional development hurdles. Automation could manage up to 30% of economic activities and potentially increase GDP growth by 20%.

“Nigeria is not waiting for the future—we are building it now,” Inuwa stated. “By investing, innovating, and collaborating, we can turn the AI revolution into a Nigerian revolution of prosperity.”

He detailed the Federal Government’s digital transformation plans, including the National AI Strategy, restructuring of the National Centre for AI and Robotics, and support for over 45 AI startups through the Nigeria AI Research Scheme. Collaborations with Google and Nigerian universities were noted as key drivers of AI adoption.

IMPR’s Role in Digital Economy and PR Innovation

Speaking for NIPR, Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon described IMPR as a “multi-award-winning PR agency known for innovation and vision.” The lecture’s theme, “Agenda for a Digital Global Economy,” was called timely amidst a period where digital transformation shapes governance, trade, education, and healthcare.

“Any nation that fails to embrace the digital shift risks being left behind, while those that seize it can leapfrog barriers to growth and development,” Dr. Olajuwon remarked.

NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku praised the launch of three new books at the event:

• Diplomacy and Digital Innovation: Youths’ Insights
• Healing Nigeria: A Chronicle of Health Reform and Hope
• Renewed Hope in Central Banking

He highlighted their value as tools for sparking informed discussions and supporting evidence-based policy decisions.

Strengthening Dialogue on Economic and Digital Growth

Major General Chris Olukolade (Rtd), Chairman of the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC), praised IMPR for maintaining the lecture series. He described it as a platform that fosters dialogue on economic reform, digital transformation, and professional excellence.

Dr. Sule Yau Sule, Associate Professor of Strategic Communication and IMPR Board Chairman, noted that nearly 70% of IMPR’s staff have contributed as authors or co-authors. He commended the books presented, including:

• Renewed Hope in Central Banking by Rahma Olamide Oladosu, which explores Nigeria’s monetary policy under CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso.
• Healing Nigeria by Lawal Dahiru Mamman and Maimuna Katuka Aliyu, offering analysis on health reforms, outbreaks, mental health, and biotech advancements.
• Diplomacy and Digital Innovation: Youths’ Insights by NYSC members Fatimah Yusuf Usman and Umar Farouk Bala, reflecting youth perspectives on diplomacy, digital transformation, and migration trends.

AI’s Growing Impact in Journalism and PR

IMPR founder and Editor-in-Chief of Economic Confidential, Yushau A. Shuaib, emphasized the increasing role of AI in journalism and public relations. He recalled that previous lectures focused on economic diversification in a cashless economy (2023) and food security (2024). This year’s theme reflects Nigeria’s expanding involvement in the global digital economy.

Shuaib also announced the upcoming second edition of the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship, which aims to equip emerging communicators with skills in journalism, AI, and strategic media engagement.

Recognition of Outstanding Leaders at the Event

The event ended with four “Economic Confidential Personalities of the Year” awards, honoring:

• Mallam Kashifu Inuwa, NITDA DG – CEO of the Year for Digital Transformation
• Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa – for Industrialisation and Solid Minerals Development
• Ambassador Yusuf M. Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs – for Economic Diplomacy and Regional Stability
• Dr. Zacch Adedeji, FIRS Chairman – for Championing Inter-Agency Cooperation

As AI continues to influence public relations and communications, initiatives like those of IMPR demonstrate how embracing technology can help professionals stay ahead. For PR and communication specialists interested in enhancing their AI skills, exploring tailored courses can provide practical benefits. Resources such as Complete AI Training’s courses for communication professionals offer valuable options to build expertise in this area.