NSUK Inaugural Lecture Spotlights Nigeria’s Reputation Crisis, Calls for Integrity Over Optics

Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), has hosted its 59th inaugural lecture with a strong focus on the interplay between communication, power, and public perception in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.

The lecture, delivered on April 15, 2026, by Prof. Emmanuel S. Dandaura of the Department of Theatre and Cultural Studies, was titled “When Applause Lies: Communication, Power, and the War Between Reputation and Perception in Nigeria.” The event took place at the university’s Assembly Hall and attracted dignitaries from academia, government, traditional institutions, and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.

Governor Abdullahi A. Sule of Nasarawa State, who attended as Visitor to the university, described the lecture as timely and relevant, particularly in addressing the growing impact of misinformation and distorted narratives. He urged citizens to uphold integrity and responsible leadership, warning against the consequences of fake news and negative influence on societal values.

The governor also reaffirmed the state government’s support for the university and announced a donation of ₦10 million in honour of the inaugural lecturer.

In her welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, commended the Inaugural Lecture Committee and noted that the theme reflected pressing realities within Nigeria’s communication environment. She said the relationship between reputation and perception remains critical in shaping public discourse, adding that communication can either drive development or fuel conflict.

Prof. Liman observed that those in positions of authority often influence narratives and public perception, sometimes resulting in distorted realities. She expressed confidence that the lecture would provide valuable insights for both students and stakeholders.

In his presentation, Prof. Dandaura argued that legitimacy is rooted in consistent performance rather than strategic messaging, stressing that while communication can shape perception, trust is sustained by lived experience.

He warned against equating public applause with genuine belief, noting that visibility and attention do not necessarily translate into credibility. According to him, societies that rely on managed narratives risk undermining trust and stability.

“Any nation that mistakes applause for belief is standing on dangerously unstable ground,” he said, urging leaders and institutions to prioritise accountability and measurable outcomes over perception management.

He further emphasised that communication should reflect actual performance, not attempt to substitute for it, calling for discipline and a stronger alignment between words and actions.

In goodwill messages, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Prof. Adam A. Binchi; President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Ike Neliaku; and a representative of the Dandaura family, Maiwazi Dandaura, commended the lecturer for his academic contributions and impact.

The event featured cultural performances and the presentation of an award for contributions to knowledge by the state governor, concluding with a call for renewed commitment to integrity, accountability, and responsible communication in national development.