The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called on public relations practitioners to move beyond image polishing and embrace candid, issues-based engagement with Nigerians, saying transparency is central to governance and national trust.
Speaking at the Nigeria Public Relations Week (Croc City) 2026, themed “Food Security: From Policy Paper to Public Plate; the Imperatives of Public Relations,” in Kaduna on Thursday, Kalu said public relations must incorporate a needs analysis mechanism to truly understand citizens’ concerns and identify potential pathways forward.
He commended the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) for its role in promoting professionalism, ethical communication and reputation management since its establishment.
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The Deputy Speaker, who was conferred with the Honorary Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (FINPR), noted that the institute has been vital in strengthening relationships between institutions and the citizens they serve.
“Public relations for leaders should extend beyond merely announcing their achievements or addressing perceived problems. It must incorporate a needs analysis to truly understand what concerns citizens the most and identify potential pathways forward. Following these discussions, it is vital to return to the public for feedback and appraisal sessions.
“Public relations shouldn’t just focus on creating a polished image; it should also involve candid discussions that address real issues, ensuring a more transparent and authentic connection with the citizens. This transparency promotes trust, paving the way for more effective governance in the future.
“The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations occupies an important place in our national life. Since its establishment, it has championed professionalism, ethical communication, reputation management, and strengthened relationships between institutions and the citizens they serve. In an era where misinformation, distrust, and division can spread rapidly, the work of public relations professionals has become even more critical to democracy and development,” Kalu explained.
Citing the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer Global Report, the Deputy Speaker warned that more than 61 per cent of citizens worldwide now express moderate to high grievance towards institutions, while distrust in media and leadership continues to rise.
He stressed that nations today succeed not just by the strength of their policies, but by the strength of trust between government and the governed.
Kalu commended President Bola Tinubu for projecting Nigeria’s image through his trips abroad, culminating in his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, which he said further demonstrated the strategic importance of public relations in modern governance and international diplomacy.
He said such engagements reinforced that effective public relations was not merely about image, but about building credibility, trust and mutually beneficial relationships that advance the country’s interests.
Reflecting on his role in the National Assembly, the Deputy Speaker said the 10th House of Representatives remains committed to a legislature that listens, engages, explains and responds to the aspirations of Nigerians.
“Democracy flourishes when citizens feel heard, respected, and included in the governance process. That is why legislative communication, stakeholder engagement, and people-centred leadership remain central to our work,” Kalu stressed.
The Deputy Speaker expressed gratitude to the NIPR for finding him worthy of the fellowship, saying it would inspire him to do more for the nation.