The Fellowship, according to a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Abdullahi Mohammed, on Friday, remains one of the highest distinctions of the Institute, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional influence in advancing the ideals and professional standards of public relations in Nigeria and beyond.
Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo’s conferment underscores his consistent efforts in promoting transparency, strengthening government–citizen engagement, and institutionalising effective communication as a vital tool in the delivery of infrastructure and public service.
His approach aligns strongly with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises inclusive governance, accountability, and sustainable national development, with particular emphasis on accelerated infrastructure development across the country.
The Minister has continued to emphasise clear, proactive, and responsible communication in the execution of key infrastructure projects nationwide.
This has significantly enhanced public trust, improved stakeholder engagement, and ensured that Nigerians remain well-informed about government initiatives and ongoing infrastructural developments.
The Minister also called on the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to further leverage its prestigious platforms and institutional capacity in promoting public awareness of the policies, programmes, and achievements of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, particularly in the area of infrastructure development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He stressed that the Institute, as the nation’s foremost professional communication body, has a critical responsibility to effectively inform the public about ongoing infrastructural projects, policy reforms, and the tangible impact of government efforts on national development.
Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., also expressed profound appreciation to the Institute for the honour, describing it as both a recognition of service and a renewed call to greater responsibility.
He reiterated the importance of ethical and professional communication in governance, noting that it remains indispensable in building public confidence in institutions and sustaining development outcomes.
The Minister further reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote professionalism, capacity development, and adherence to global best practices within the public relations sector.
Also honoured as Honorary Fellow-Designates are other distinguished personalities across various sectors, whose contributions have significantly impacted governance, education, security, traditional leadership, and media development:
H.E. Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives (10th Assembly), Federal Republic of Nigeria
General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, to Federal Republic of Nigeria
Mr. Arik Karani, President, African Public Relations Association (APRA)
Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, Registrar-General, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)
Prof. Suleiman Elias Bogoro, Former Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund)
HRH Pastor Samson Gamu Yare, Chun Mada III; President, Akwanga LGA Traditional Council
Prof. Samson Duna, Director-General, Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI)
Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, Vice-Chancellor, Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK)
Prof. Ayo Omotayo, Director-General, National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru
Chief Marcel Anyalechi, Group Chief Executive Officer, DAAR Communications Plc
Prof. Vincent C. Anigbogu, Adviser to the Government of Uganda; International Director-General, Institute for National Transformation
Comrade Audu Titus Amba, President, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT)
High Chief Engr. (Dr.) Johnny O. Chukwu, Chairman, Doveland International School; Former Permanent Secretary, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA)
Prof. Paschal Onyi Oguno, Former Dean, Faculty of Law, Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu University (COOU)
The Institute noted that the selection of awardees reflects a broad recognition of excellence, integrity, and dedication to advancing communication as a strategic instrument for national growth.