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Why Measurement and Evaluation is Necessary for Growth of PR Industry: A Nigerian Perspective

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Philip Odiakose media performance audit

By Philip Odiakose

As a PR measurement specialist and thought leader in PR measurement and evaluation in Nigeria, I have had the privilege of witnessing the transformative impact that rigorous measurement and evaluation practices can have on the public relations industry. In Nigeria, where the PR industry faces unique challenges and opportunities, embracing robust measurement and evaluation frameworks is essential for demonstrating value, enhancing the credibility of the profession, and driving sustainable growth. In this article, I will explore why measurement and evaluation are necessary for the growth of the PR industry in Nigeria, supported by relevant case studies from within the country.

Measurement and evaluation are crucial for showcasing the tangible value and return on objectives (ROO) of PR activities. Many clients and stakeholders in Nigeria often view PR as an intangible service with unclear benefits. Effective measurement and evaluation frameworks allow PR professionals to link their efforts directly to organizational goals, such as increased brand awareness, improved reputation, and heightened customer engagement. This substantiation of contributions is vital for securing greater investment and trust from clients and stakeholders.

Take, for instance, the case of a leading Nigerian telecommunications company that launched a nationwide campaign to promote its new data plans. Through meticulous measurement and evaluation done by the team at P+ Measurement Services, the PR team of the brand was able to demonstrate a 25% increase in customer inquiries and a 15% rise in subscriptions within three months. These results, backed by data, convinced the company’s leadership of the campaign’s success and justified further investment in PR initiatives. This example highlights the importance of measurement and evaluation in providing concrete evidence of PR’s impact on business outcomes.

Enhancing credibility and accountability is another significant benefit of measurement and evaluation. In Nigeria’s competitive market, credibility is paramount. Rigorous measurement and evaluation practices provide transparent and verifiable evidence of PR outcomes. This accountability not only builds trust with clients and stakeholders but also positions PR as a strategic function within organizations. When PR professionals can demonstrate the direct impact of their work on business outcomes, they earn a seat at the decision-making table and can influence organizational strategy more effectively.

Consider the example of a Nigerian non-profit organization focused on environmental conservation. The organization ran a campaign to raise awareness about plastic pollution. By employing comprehensive measurement and evaluation, the brand PR team, with the support of the P+ Measurement team, tracked media coverage, social media engagement, and public sentiment. The results showed a significant shift in public awareness and a notable increase in community participation in cleanup activities. These insights were instrumental in securing additional funding and partnerships for future campaigns. This case study underscores the role of measurement and evaluation in enhancing credibility and accountability within the PR industry.

Measurement and evaluation also play a pivotal role in driving strategic decision-making. Data-driven insights enable PR professionals to make informed decisions about their campaigns and initiatives. By analyzing the effectiveness of PR efforts, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and understanding audience behaviour, PR practitioners can optimize their strategies, tailor their messaging, and allocate resources more effectively. This iterative process of continuous improvement is essential for achieving sustained success in the dynamic PR landscape.

For example, a Nigerian fintech startup launched a PR campaign to introduce a new mobile payment app. My team (P+ Measurement Services) was engaged to provide PR monitoring, measurement, and evaluation. The brand’s PR team discovered that, while media coverage was extensive, customer engagement was lower than expected. By analyzing feedback and identifying gaps in their messaging, the team refined their approach, resulting in a significant uptick in app downloads and user engagement in the subsequent phase of the campaign. This example illustrates how measurement and evaluation can drive strategic decision-making and enhance the effectiveness of PR efforts.

The digital revolution has transformed the PR industry, introducing new channels, tools, and metrics for engagement. Measurement and evaluation are essential for navigating this complex digital landscape. Digital analytics, social media monitoring, and sentiment analysis provide near-real-time insights into audience interactions and measure the reach and impact of digital campaigns. By leveraging these tools with the support of human analysts, PR professionals in Nigeria can adapt their strategies to stay ahead of emerging trends and ensure that their efforts resonate with their target audiences.

For the Nigerian PR industry to fully realize the benefits of measurement and evaluation, it is important to adopt robust frameworks and best practices. Clear, measurable objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) form the foundation of any effective measurement and evaluation framework. Objectives should align with organizational goals and be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. KPIs should capture both quantitative and qualitative aspects of PR activities, encompassing metrics such as media coverage, sentiment, engagement, and impact on business outcomes.

A comprehensive measurement approach combines both quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative methods, such as media monitoring and web analytics, provide numerical data on reach, frequency, and engagement. Qualitative methods, such as surveys, focus groups, and content analysis, offer deeper insights into audience perceptions, message resonance, and brand reputation. By integrating both types of data, PR professionals can obtain a holistic view of PR effectiveness and make more informed strategic decisions.

Ethical considerations are paramount in measurement and evaluation. PR professionals must adhere to ethical standards and best practices, ensuring transparency, accuracy, and integrity in data collection, analysis, and reporting.

This commitment to ethical measurement practices builds trust with clients and stakeholders and upholds the reputation of the PR profession.

One notable example in Nigeria is the case of a major public health campaign aimed at increasing vaccination rates. The campaign faced scepticism from certain segments of the population, driven by misinformation and distrust. Through comprehensive media monitoring, measurement, and evaluation, the PR team was able to track changes in public sentiment, identify key influencers spreading misinformation, and adjust their communication strategies accordingly. By maintaining transparency and ethical standards in their measurement practices, the campaign ultimately succeeded in increasing vaccination rates and building public trust.

For measurement and evaluation to be truly effective, they must be ingrained in the organizational culture. PR agencies and in-house teams should prioritize measurement and evaluation as an integral part of their PR strategies. This involves continuous learning, training, and capacity building to enhance measurement capabilities and keep pace with evolving industry standards.

In conclusion, measurement and evaluation are indispensable for the growth and success of the PR industry in Nigeria. By demonstrating value, enhancing credibility, driving strategic decision-making, and navigating the digital landscape, measurement and evaluation empower PR professionals to elevate their practice and deliver impactful results. As a thought leader in PR measurement and evaluation, I urge the Nigerian PR industry to embrace robust measurement frameworks and ethical standards, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence. By doing so, we can unlock the full potential of PR, drive meaningful change, and contribute to the sustainable growth of our industry.

The examples provided illustrate how measurement and evaluation can be applied in various contexts within the Nigerian PR industry. They highlight the importance of linking PR activities to organizational goals, enhancing credibility, and driving strategic decision-making. Moreover, they demonstrate the necessity of navigating the digital landscape with the help of advanced tools and technologies.

Ultimately, the adoption of robust measurement and evaluation practices will enable PR professionals in Nigeria to prove their value, secure greater investment, and influence organizational strategy more effectively. This, in turn, will drive the growth and success of the PR industry in Nigeria, positioning it as a vital and strategic function within organizations.

Philip Odiakose is a leader and advocate of PR measurement and evaluation in Nigeria. He is also the Chief Media Analyst at P+ Measurement Services, a member of AMEC 

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P+ Beats Others to Clinch NSIA Media Intelligence Deal

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PPlus x NSIA

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

P+ Measurement Services Limited has been chosen as the preferred agency to provide media intelligence services for the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).

P+ won the media monitoring and intelligence business after a competitive and rigorous pitch process involving four agencies.

The foremost agency, run by Mr Philip Odiakose as the Chief Media Analyst, will provide continuous media intelligence across NSIA’s operations and affiliated interests, delivering insight-driven analysis to strengthen reputation management, stakeholder engagement, and communication performance.

It was gathered that the selection process assessed strategic thinking, execution capability, and the ability to deliver timely, decision-ready intelligence.

P+ distinguished itself through its strength in near real-time media monitoring, advanced measurement frameworks, and performance audit systems designed to support complex institutions with multiple stakeholder interests.

It brings a strong and diverse portfolio spanning government institutions, financial services, development organisations, multinationals, energy, telecommunications, and NGOs. Its approach combines global best practices with deep local expertise, ensuring that intelligence is both contextually relevant and strategically useful.

Commenting on the win, Mr Odiakose noted that the process reflected the level of diligence expected from an institution like NSIA, adding that the P+ focus remains on delivering media intelligence that goes beyond tracking media mentions to explaining narratives, measuring impact, and guiding decision-making.

He emphasised that P+ will leverage its global methodologies, adapted to local realities, to provide NSIA with timely insights, clear performance evaluation, and a deeper understanding of how media perception shapes outcomes.

Also speaking, the Corporate Communications at NSIA said P+ was chosen because it demonstrated a strong understanding of its requirements and a clear ability to translate media data into meaningful insight.

The NSIA communications team noted that the firm’s proven track record across sectors, combined with its disciplined approach to measurement and evaluation, positioned it as a credible partner to support NSIA’s communication priorities and broader institutional objectives.

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Airtel Engages Customers on Concerns Around Data Usage, Others

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airtel nigeria customer forum Lagos

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, customers of Airtel Nigeria felt more involved and loved when the telecommunications company gathered them together at the Lagos Travel Inn Hotel in Ikeja to discuss some of their concerns, especially around data usage, transparency and their experience with its services.

It was the first-ever Customer Forum of Airtel Nigeria in Lagos, where regulators, high-volume data subscribers, 5G customers, and other key stakeholders learned ways to tackle the issue of data depletion.

The event, themed Understanding Your Data: How to Take Control, also highlighted Airtel Nigeria’s ongoing investments in customer experience, including enhanced digital tools, clearer usage dashboards, and expanded retail and support networks aimed at improving transparency and accessibility.

“This is our very first customer forum, and it is more than an event. It is a bold statement that in today’s digital economy, the most important voice is the informed customer,” the Director of Marketing at Airtel Nigeria, Mr Ismail Adeshina, said.

He emphasised that while data has become central to everyday life, from business transactions to education and healthcare, concerns around data value and consumption remain valid and must be addressed transparently.

“Data is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity as essential as electricity and water. However, as usage grows, customers are asking an important question: “Am I truly getting value for the data I purchase? This is not just a technical issue; it is a matter of trust,” Mr Adeshina added.

He further explained that evolving usage patterns, including high-definition video streaming, cloud-based applications, and background app activity, have significantly increased data consumption compared to previous years. According to him, the forum was designed as both a listening platform and an educational session to help customers better understand how their data is used.

“We are here to listen, to explain clearly, and to provide evidence. When customers understand how their data is consumed, it shifts the experience from uncertainty to control and from frustration to confidence,” he further disclosed.

On her part, the Director of Customer Affairs Bureau at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Ms Freda Ruth Bruce-Bennett, reaffirmed the regulator’s commitment to protecting consumer interests and ensuring service quality across the industry, noting that data consumption has become deeply integrated into daily life, making any perceived loss of data a significant concern for users.

“We understand that data is central to how people live and work today, which is why concerns around data depletion are taken seriously. The NCC has put mechanisms in place to ensure that consumers receive the quality of service they deserve and that their voices are heard,” she said.

Ms Bruce-Bennett encouraged customers to take advantage of the NCC’s consumer portal, which provides guidance on data management and a platform for lodging complaints.

“There is an A to Z of data management tips available on the NCC portal, and we encourage consumers to use it. We also continue to work closely with operators like Airtel to ensure that complaints are addressed promptly and transparently,” she added.

On customer engagement and service delivery, the Customer Experience Director at Airtel Nigeria, Mr Oladokun Oye, highlighted the company’s multi-channel approach to supporting customers across the country.

“At Airtel Nigeria, customer experience is not just a function; it is embedded across everything we do. From our network design to how we communicate and resolve issues, the customer remains at the centre,” he said.

He noted that Airtel maintains one of the most extensive customer touchpoint networks in Nigeria, including over 1,000 exclusive shops, a dedicated contact centre accessible via 300, and multiple digital platforms such as the MyAirtel App, web channels, and AI-powered chatbots.

“These channels are designed to provide not just service, but clarity and understanding. We are also continuously improving our digital platforms to ensure customers can track and manage their usage in real time,” Oye added.

He further advised customers to engage only with authorised Airtel outlets to ensure service quality and protect personal information.

The Airtel Customer Forum forms part of a broader industry effort, in collaboration with the NCC, to promote data awareness, transparency in billing, and improved customer education.

By creating a platform for open dialogue, Airtel Nigeria is reinforcing its shift from a transactional relationship with customers to a more collaborative and informed partnership.

The company noted that insights from the forum will inform future improvements in service delivery, customer communication, and digital tools, as it continues to support Nigeria’s journey towards a more inclusive and transparent digital economy.

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NAFDAC Warns Consumers Against Fake Colgate Brand in Circulation

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Fake Colgate Brand

By Adedapo Adesanya

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted the public to the distribution of unregistered and suspected counterfeit Colgate toothpaste brand in Nigeria.

In a public notice shared on X (formerly Twitter), the agency said its Post-Marketing Surveillance Directorate received a complaint regarding the sale of the products in Kaduna State by a shop owner.

Following an investigation, officials of the food and drugs surveillance organisation visited the outlet and discovered two suspected counterfeit products branded as Coglaet ActivGel 100g and Coglaet Herbal 100g. The spellings were not only the indicator, but the production standards.

According to the agency, the shop owner disclosed that the items were sourced from a door-to-door sales representative but could not provide proof of purchase.

NAFDAC stated that the products failed to meet regulatory standards for registration and quality assurance, warning that they pose potential risks to public health and safety. It also added that the stated manufacturer could be traced to Baiyun District, Guangzhou, China.

The agency confirmed that the items have been removed from circulation, while efforts are ongoing to trace those responsible for their distribution.

NAFDAC urged consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspected sale of substandard or counterfeit regulated products to the nearest office, via its hotline or official email channels.

In a statement, NAFDAC said, “All NAFDAC zonal directors and state coordinators have been instructed to conduct surveillance and mop up the unregistered and counterfeited products if found within their zones and states.

“Distributors, retailers, and consumers are hereby advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the distribution, sale, and use of counterfeit products. The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked.”

Consumers are advised to report any suspicion of the sale of substandard, falsified, or counterfeit regulated products to the nearest NAFDAC office, call NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322, or via email: [email protected]. For complaints, the Reforms Unit can be reached: 09097630506, 09097630507, or email: [email protected]

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