The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and Nasarawa State Government have flagged off the commencement of construction work at the University of Public Relations and Leadership (UPRL) site located at Gudi, Nasarawa State.
In a statement signed by the Director, Public Relations, Stanley Ogadigo, the flag-off ceremony signifies a landmark in the life of the project, giving a strong indication that the university will commence academic activities in record time with required facilities before the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) scheduled to hold in Nigeria next year.
Speaking during the flag off ceremony, the President, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku said through the university project, Nigeria will emerge as a new global centre of leadership and excellence in communication, adding that the migration of the project from idea to reality is a demonstration of Governor Abdullahi Sule’s commitment to raising a new generation of leaders.
“Your Excellency, with what we are doing here today, you are sending a message not just to Nigeria but to the world that Nasarawa is at the centre of history. With hosting of this first of its kind university, Nasarawa under your leadership has demonstrated responsible use of influence”, he stated.
Also speaking at the event, Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule expressed appreciation to the Global Alliance and the NIPR for approving Nasarawa as the host state for the project which comes with huge developmental value in terms of education, capacity building and employment opportunities.
“As a government, we are committed to ensuring the completion of this project through the provision of necessary support. We want to assure you that by November 2026, the matriculation of first set of your students will take place in this facility”, he stated.
The statement added that, within a space of one year, the University of Public Relations and Leadership, initiative has witnessed three major milestones beginning with meeting of both parties in January, 2025, where the idea was presented to the Nasarawa State Government by the Institute, followed by signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) inJuly and now a Foundation Laying Ceremony/Official Flag-off of Construction in December, 2025.