The Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN) has commenced a new regulatory practice code to govern public relations consultancy operations across the country.
According to reports, the framework, known as the Public Relations Consultancy Practice Code (PRCPC) 2026, sets fresh standards for agency-client relationships, competitive pitching, protection of intellectual property and professional accountability.
The association in a statement on Sunday by its spokesperson, Dr Monday Ashibogwu, declared that the Code would provide a unified standard for professional conduct and consultancy practice, aimed at safeguarding the interests of clients, practitioners and other stakeholders in the PR industry.
PRCAN disclosed that the Code was formally adopted by its Executive Committee on September 11, 2026, in coherent with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Bye-Law No. 3 of 1993, as amended in 2026.
The regulatory document details procedures for consultancy engagements, Request for Proposals (RFPs), competitive pitches, intellectual property rights, ethical conduct and dispute resolution.
Chief Executive Officer of PRCAN, Dr Nkechi Ali-Balogun, who announced the commencement of the Code, said it has taken effect nationwide since September 11, 2026
“The Public Relations Consultancy Practice Code 2026 formally enters into force across the Federal Republic of Nigeria effective September 11, 2026,” Ali-Balogun said.
She affirmed that all consultancy engagements, competitive pitch invitations, RFPs and other professional agency operations initiated from the effective date is expected to comply with the provisions of the Code.
One of the major highlights of the Code is the regulation of competitive pitching. Over the years, pitching has been a source of friction between agencies and clients, particularly over the unauthorised use of creative ideas and strategies presented during procurement bidding.
To address this, PRCAN stated thst the Code now defines clearer pitch parameters, mandates transparent procurement processes and provides legal safeguards for proprietary agency concepts and intellectual property.
The body explained that the provisions are not only designed to protect agencies, but also to offer certainty and protection for corporate clients, marketing executives and procurement professionals who engage PR consultancies.
Ali-Balogun emphasised that compliance is not optional, noting that adherence is tied to the NIPR regulatory framework.
“Adherence to this Code is a statutory requirement tied to NIPR Bye-Law No. 3 (2026),” she said.
Additionally, she stated that violations such as non-compliance, solicitation of pitches without approved fee structures, intellectual property infringement and ethical breaches will be referred to the Consultancy Practice Standards Panel (CPSP) and the NIPR Council for investigation, adjudication and enforcement.
PRCAN disclosed that the CPSP, which comprises representatives of both NIPR Council and PRCAN, will serve as an institutional mechanism for resolving disputes in the industry arising from consultancy relationships
Meanwhile, under the new system, clients can petition against agencies over alleged contract breaches, poor service delivery or ethical violations, while agencies can also lodge complaints against clients over procurement malpractices ,Intellectual Property theft and other proffessional issues
The association however, described the Code as a milestone for professionalising PR practice in Nigeria, promoting mutual accountability and reducing ambiguities in the procurement and delivery of public relations services.
PRCAN is the umbrella body for licensed PR consultancy firms in Nigeria, established under the NIPR regulatory framework governing public relations consulting practice to promote professional excellence and protect the interests of registered Agencies.
