Nigeria’s Interior Ministry is set to host a comprehensive media masterclass aimed at retooling Public Relations Officers (PROs) and media teams under its command.
Tagged “Beyond Press Statements: Media as a Tool for Public Engagement,” the masterclass takes place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Wazobia Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel, and is expected to set a new benchmark for government communication standards.
The special guest of honour at the event is the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, whose reformist vision has driven several initiatives around digitalisation, internal security, and inter-agency synergy within the ministry.
“The programme aims to equip Service PROs and media teams under the ministry of Interior with effective media engagement strategies, leveraging digital media for public engagement, and utilizing visual storytelling tools,” the Ministry said.
“The event will feature expert speakers, panel discussions, and practical sessions.”
Top Media Experts to Lead Practical Sessions
A curated lineup of seasoned media professionals will deliver keynote speeches and practical training. Among the speakers is Seun Okinbaloye, a broadcast journalist and presenter at Channels TV, who will present on “Building a Micro Newsroom as a Service.”
Joining him is Basheer Hassan, Managing Director of Business Day (Northern Operations), who will lead a critical session on “Media and Crisis Communication: Lessons for Service PROs.”
Other facilitators bring hands-on expertise in specific storytelling techniques. Media consultant Femi Salako will present on media as a development tool, emphasising the importance of framing narratives around public service delivery and citizen impact.
Dr. Oladele Peter, a digital media strategist, will speak on how agencies can leverage social media and online tools for sustained engagement with digitally-savvy audiences.
Visual storytelling will also be spotlighted: Gabriel Tayo, official photographer to the Minister, will teach participants how to use photography for public relations and storytelling, while Obakunle Ifeoluwa, the ministry’s videographer, will lead a session on videography as an explainer tool.
A Timely Gathering for National Security Agencies
The event will draw participants from several of Nigeria’s frontline internal security agencies, including:
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) – charged with protecting critical infrastructure and internal peacekeeping.
- Federal Fire Service (FFS) – responsible for national fire prevention and emergency response.
- Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) – managing rehabilitation and correctional services across custodial centres.
- Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)– overseeing border control, visa issuance, and passport services.
- Ministry of Interior Press Team – the coordinating media unit for internal affairs-related communications.
According to the Nigeria’s Interior Ministry, these agencies form the communication backbone of internal security architecture, and equipping their media teams is considered vital for public trust and operational transparency.
Schedule and Key Sessions
The masterclass will begin with registration and an interlude at 10:00 a.m., followed by the National Anthem and opening session at 11:00 a.m.
The Honourable Minister is expected to deliver a keynote address at 11:20 a.m., setting the tone for the day’s activities. Each speaker’s session will blend theory and practical experience, ensuring that attendees leave with tangible knowledge they can apply.
The event will be moderated by Chinedu Chidi, a respected journalist and media strategist, while the Special Adviser on Media to the Minister will deliver both the welcome address and the closing vote of thanks.
What This Means
According to Nigeria’s Interior Ministry, the masterclass will empower service PROs with the tools to craft proactive, engaging, and development-driven narratives, anchored in authenticity and strategic storytelling.
According to the organisers, the session aims to equip communication teams with critical skills in digital engagement, visual storytelling, media crisis response, and development-focused messaging.
Experts note the programme is not just about media training, it’s about building trust with the public, and learning how to tell impactful stories that connect citizens with the work of government.
Talking Points
It is encouraging to see the Ministry of Interior take a proactive step towards strengthening government communication by investing in the professional development of its service PROs and media teams.
By focusing on media as a tool for public engagement, the Ministry is recognising the critical role storytelling, transparency, and citizen-focused messaging play in today’s information landscape.
At Techparley, we believe initiatives like this signal a new era of strategic communication within public institutions, one where media units are not just reactive but actively shape public trust through clarity, consistency, and creativity.
The inclusion of practical sessions on photography, videography, and digital media strategy demonstrates a well-rounded approach to communication, equipping agencies to engage citizens visually and across multiple platforms.
We are particularly pleased to see the Ministry adopt a holistic agenda, drawing on expertise from journalists, consultants, and digital strategists, ensuring that service PROs are equipped with both tactical and strategic media skills.
