By Chigozie Igbo Jr
Aloysius Emeka Attah has been appointed as the new Public Relations Officer of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), a move widely seen as a strategic step toward strengthening the institution’s public image, media engagement, and stakeholder relations.
Attah, a seasoned public relations practitioner, journalist, and civil society advocate, brings nearly two decades of experience in media, strategic communication, and public affairs to the role. Until his appointment, he served as Chief Correspondent of The Sun Newspaper, covering the five South-East states.
University authorities say his appointment is expected to reposition the institution’s communication architecture, deepen engagement with stakeholders, and project its activities more effectively on both national and global platforms.
As varsity spokesman, Attah will lead efforts in media relations, public communication, and narrative development, translating the university’s policies, programmes, and achievements into clear, relatable messages that resonate with students, staff, partners, and they wider public.
*Driving Visibility and Institutional Trust*
Observers note that Attah’s background in investigative journalism and public relations places him in a strong position to enhance transparency and credibility in the university’s communication process. His experience covering the education sector and reporting on UNIZIK for over 16 years is expected to give him unique insight into the institution’s strengths, challenges, and opportunities.
His appointment comes at a time when universities are increasingly required to compete globally for visibility, partnerships, and reputation. Analysts believe that a well-structured communication strategy, driven by an experienced professional,can significantly boost institutional branding, attract collaborations, and strengthen public confidence.
Attah is also expected to modernise the university’s communication channels by leveraging digital media, proactive storytelling, and strategic engagement with both traditional and new media platforms.
*Bridging the Gap Between Policy and the Public*
A key advantage of Attah’s appointment lies in his ability to simplify complex institutional policies and initiatives for public understanding. By making information more accessible, he is expected to foster stronger participation from students, alumni, and external stakeholders.
His role will also involve managing the university’s public perception during critical moments, ensuring accurate information flow, and building a consistent narrative that reflects the institution’s vision and achievements.
*Blend of Experience and Institutional Loyalty*
An alumnus of UNIZIK, where he earned a degree in Political Science, Attah also holds a Master’s degree in the same discipline from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University. His academic background, combined with his professional experience, positions him as both an insider and a strategist capable of aligning communication goals with institutional objectives.
He is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), attaining full membership in 2024 after completing the Mandatory Continuing Development Programme.
*Track Record of Excellence*
Attah’s career is marked by numerous accolades, including the 2025 Star Prize (Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna Prize for Ethical Reporting) by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Rukyatu Danjuma Prize for Public Health Reporter of the Year at the Nigerian Media Merit Awards (NMMA), and Best Correspondent of the Year by the NUJ Correspondents Chapel, Anambra State.
Beyond journalism, he has held several leadership roles in civil society, including Chairman of the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), South-East Zone, and has participated in election observation missions and policy advocacy initiatives.
*Positioning UNIZIK for Global Relevance*
Stakeholders believe that Attah’s appointment could mark a turning point in how UNIZIK communicates its value proposition to the world. With his expertise in storytelling, media strategy, and stakeholder engagement, the university is expected to amplify its research output, academic excellence, and global impact.
Attah himself has expressed confidence that the institution can be repositioned as “Africa’s most visible, credible and globally respected citadel of learning” through innovative public relations and strategic communication.
As higher institutions increasingly rely on effective communication to drive growth and reputation, UNIZIK’s choice of a seasoned media professional signals a deliberate effort to align its image with global best practices.