The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Nasarawa state government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the University of Public Relations and Leadership (UPRL) in Gudi, Akwanga Local Government Area of the state.
The agreement provides multiple benefits to the host state, including 20 annual scholarship slots for qualified indigenes—ensuring representation from all 13 local government areas—as well as 50 concessionary admission slots annually for candidates sponsored by the state government.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, NIPR President, Dr Ike Neliaku, described the university as a global initiative aimed at addressing Africa’s leadership deficit.
“It is only recently that we started paying attention to issues of leadership, especially in Nigeria. In the UK and US, they have institutions that train leaders. The leadership component of UPRL will address the under-development created by bad governance. It will ensure we raise a new generation of credible leaders who will eventually become the new Nigerians that will see to the enthronement of a sustainable new nation,” he said.
Dr Neliaku added that the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management is a strategic partner and will provide international faculty and technical support. He stated that the completed university would attract global recognition and position Nigeria for increased relevance on the world stage.
Governor Abdullahi Sule, who handed over the official Conveyance of Approval for the Grant of Land, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the project’s commencement.
“We are delighted that Nasarawa will host a global standard academic institution. Perimeter fencing of the site will begin immediately, followed by the construction of key infrastructure,” he said.
Governor Sule also noted that UPRL would serve as a centre for manpower development and capacity building, not only for Nasarawa indigenes but also for neighbouring states—preparing Nigeria to become a hub for training future leaders for effective service delivery.
PIAK