The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), FCT Chapter, has instituted an annual prize for the best graduating Mass Communication student at Baze University, in a move aimed at promoting academic excellence and strengthening collaboration between academia and the public relations profession.
The initiative was unveiled during a courtesy visit by a high-powered delegation of the institute, led by the FCT Chapter Chairman, Mr Stanley Azuka Ogadigbo, to the Vice-Chancellor of Baze University, Professor Abiodun Adeniyi, in Abuja.
During the meeting, both organisations also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the forthcoming World Conference of Public Relations, scheduled for later this year. They described the event as an important global platform for advancing professional discourse, fostering international collaboration and showcasing Nigeria’s growing influence in public relations.
Welcoming the delegation, Professor Adeniyi described the institution of the annual prize as a commendable initiative that would encourage academic excellence while strengthening the link between university education and professional practice. He said the award would motivate students to pursue excellence and better prepare them for careers in communication and public relations.
The Vice-Chancellor also conveyed the goodwill of the Chancellor and Founder of Baze University, Senator Datti Baba Ahmed, and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to forging enduring partnerships with professional bodies to enhance teaching, research, innovation and industry engagement.
Both parties agreed to expand their collaboration through mentorship programmes, professional training, capacity-building initiatives, internships and other industry-focused activities designed to equip students with the practical knowledge and skills required to excel in the communication and public relations profession.
Professor Adeniyi commended the NIPR FCT Chapter for its continued investment in developing future communication professionals, noting that stronger collaboration between universities and professional institutions remains essential to producing graduates capable of meeting the evolving demands of the industry.
Mr Ogadigbo, in his remarks, said the institute remained committed to supporting academic institutions in producing graduates who combine sound theoretical knowledge with professional competence. He noted that the annual prize forms part of the institute’s broader efforts to encourage excellence, reward outstanding academic performance and inspire future public relations practitioners.
The visit concluded with both organisations expressing confidence that the partnership would create more opportunities for students, strengthen professional standards and contribute to the advancement of communication education and public relations practice in Nigeria.
