A Public Relations expert has cautioned Nigerians against disseminating negative messages, emphasizing the importance of reputation in a country’s development. Adetokunbo Modupe, founder and chief consultant of TPT International Limited, made this statement at the 2025 Annual Colloquium of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The colloquium, themed “Leadership and Reputation: The Role of Public Relations in Building Trust in Nigeria,” highlighted the significance of reputation in national development. Modupe stressed that building the country’s reputation is a collective responsibility, requiring the efforts of both leaders and citizens. He noted that the perception of a country directly impacts the value placed on its citizens, citing that the way Nigerians are treated abroad reflects the country’s reputation.
Modupe urged leaders to rebuild credibility through truth, fairness, and service, warning that corruption and disregard for values undermine democratic growth. He emphasized that data shows the world’s perception of Nigeria is currently negative, but acknowledged that there are also positive aspects to the country’s reputation.
The National President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Ike Neliaku, represented by Tope Adaramola, emphasized the importance of public relations in fostering trust in Nigeria. Neliaku stated that genuine communication, consistent messaging, reputation management, crisis communication, and storytelling are necessary to establish trust. He also reiterated his commitment to building the institute as a formidable institution in Nigeria.
The Chairman of the occasion, Oladipupo Adebutu, identified reputation and leadership as crucial factors in a nation’s development. He noted that Nigeria’s major challenge remains leadership rooted in weak values and loss of reputation, stressing that no nation can progress when integrity and conscience are abandoned.
The Ogun State Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Mrs. Oluwaseun Boye, emphasized that nation-building is a shared responsibility requiring leaders, institutions, and citizens to uphold ethical values and transparency. She stressed that public relations must establish trust through genuine and consistent communication, reputation management, and strategic stakeholders’ engagement.
The colloquium’s discussion reinforced the significance of reputation and leadership in Nigeria’s development. As the country continues to face challenges related to leadership and reputation, the importance of collective effort and genuine communication in building trust and fostering positive relationships cannot be overstated.