Appointed in 2023 as the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency of Nigeria by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lanre Issa-Onilu is one personality that cannot be forgotten in a bury. A quiet but larger-than-life soul, Issa-Onilu comes across the table as unassuming, however, his career track record presents boosts of both national and international impact
Lanre Issa-Onilu, a distinguished figure in the realm of public relations and strategic communication, boasts an impressive educational and professional background. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos, followed by a Master’s Certificate in Integrated Marketing Communications from West Virginia University. His academic journey also includes advanced studies in public relations and media audience research at New York University, as well as participation in several prestigious seminars and conferences in the US and UK, including at the World Advertising Research Council (WARC) in London.
Issa-Onilu’s extensive career in public relations spans over three decades, during which he has honed his skills as a media relations executive, journalist, and strategic communication planner. His early career saw him as a news editor at Comet Newspapers in Lagos, later joining THISDAY Newspapers as Assistant Editor and Group Politics Editor. His international experience includes working with World Investment News (Winne) in France, contributing to a special report on Nigeria’s democratization process for Forbes International Business magazine.
In addition to his journalistic endeavors, Issa-Onilu has been a key player in policy analysis, public perception, and crisis communication. His affiliations with professional bodies are extensive; he is an associate member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and the Public Relations Society of New York, a corporate member of the International Communications Conference (ICC) at Baruch College, and a member of the Council of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) as well as an associate member of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON).
Throughout his career, Issa-Onilu has delivered numerous papers and lectures on various aspects of public communication, both within Nigeria and internationally. His expertise in crisis communication and reputation management has been recognized globally, with speaking engagements at institutions like Baruch College, State University of New York. His role as the spokesman for the All Progressives Congress (APC) has further solidified his reputation as a leading figure in political and corporate communication.
Beyond his professional life, Issa-Onilu is an avid supporter of Arsenal Football Club and enjoys amateur golfing. His hobbies also include reading and traveling, reflecting his continuous quest for knowledge and new experiences. His career is a testament to his dedication to enhancing communication practices and his significant contributions to the field of public relations and strategic communication.
