Dr. Ike Neliaku

Dr. Ike Neliaku, FNIPR, is a distinguished public relations professional, development communication expert, and governance leader with over 35 years of experience spanning public service, academia, civil society, and the private sector. A visionary strategist and advocate for professionalism and sustainable development, he was elected in August 2023 as the 15th President and Chairman of Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and re-elected in May 2025. Dr. Neliaku holds a PhD in Development Studies and a Master’s degree in Political Economy from the University of Abuja, a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts from the University of Jos, a Diploma in National Development from the Political Warfare Bureau in Taipei, and a Certificate in Economic and Political Development from the London School of Economics. His public service career includes serving as Senior Special Assistant (Administration) to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 2010 to 2015, as well as roles between 1993 and 2006 as Special Assistant to six Ministers of Information, Special Assistant to the Minister of Cooperation and Integration in Africa, and Political Adviser to the President, alongside serving on the Governing Council of the Federal University, Gusau. In the private sector and civil society, he has been Principal Partner and CEO of Rightangle Public Relations, Founding Vice Chairman and CEO of ABC Shelters Ltd, Director of Programmes at the Institute of Civil Society, and Convener of the Issachar Centre for Research and Development. Dr. Neliaku has represented Nigeria in over 50 countries and participated in more than 60 technical missions focused on communication management, sustainable development, governance, cultural diplomacy, and youth development, positioning him as a respected global thought leader. A Fellow of numerous professional bodies including the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, African Public Relations Association, and several leadership, mediation, advertising, and development institutes, he also serves on the Board of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management. In recognition of his impact, he was listed among the Top 100 Global Black Professionals by ICABA in October 2025 and named the Ultimate Honoree Changemaker on Nigeria’s 2025 Public Relations Power List, and he is the author of 7 Conspiracies of Power, a widely regarded analysis of Nigerian politics, governance, and power dynamics.