PRCAN repositions as industry leader with far-reaching reforms

The Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN) has taken a decisive step to reposition itself as the authority in Nigeria’s PR consultancy space with the unveiling of its revised operating guidelines and Byelaw—major reforms recently approved by the Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

At a stakeholder engagement forum in Lagos, the Association, according to a statement in Abuja, presented the updated frameworks designed to align PR practice in Nigeria with global standards, strengthen regulation, and broaden inclusivity in the fast-evolving communications landscape.

PRCAN Chairman/CEO, Nkechi Ali-Balogun, described the reforms as a “significant milestone” in the Association’s drive to modernise its structures and reaffirm its leadership in the industry.

“The guidelines and Byelaw form the foundation of our shared principles. They clarify our structure, processes, and responsibilities.

“Today’s engagement marks the beginning of implementing reforms that ensure our legal and operational frameworks are sound, representative, and responsive to modern demands,” she said.

The reforms update the NIPR Byelaw No. 3 of 1993, which originally established PRCAN.

After 32 years, industry leaders agreed the framework needed recalibration to confront emerging challenges, regulate practitioner–client relationships, enhance professional ethics, and protect consultants from exploitation.

“These reforms broaden inclusivity, strengthen client–practitioner relationships, and equip our members for contemporary service delivery,” Ali-Balogun added.

“They will deliver greater value to clients while keeping our Association fit for purpose.”

The forum attracted practitioners across generations and specialisations. Four past presidents—Chief Nn’emeka Maduegbuna, Mazi Mike Okereke, John Ehiguese, and Israel Opayemi—were present and contributed expert insights drawn from decades of industry leadership.

Delivering a goodwill message, former PRCAN President and CEO of Mike Okereke Consulting, Mazi Mike Okereke, praised the current leadership for its revitalisation drive.

He noted that PRCAN had historically shaped the development of public relations in Nigeria and must continue to assert itself as a central voice on professional standards and policy within the NIPR ecosystem.

“We appreciate the contributions of our past leaders and all stakeholders,” Ali-Balogun said in closing.

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“Their input is invaluable as we begin the full implementation of these reforms. We look forward to sustained collaboration as PRCAN charts the future of public relations consulting in Nigeria.”