Nigeria Reputation Summit 2026: Fashola Charts Bold Roadmap to Elevate Nigeria’s Global Standing
In a compelling address at the inaugural Nigeria Reputation Summit 2026, former Lagos State Governor and ex-Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola, outlined a strategic vision for strengthening Nigeria’s global image, urging leaders and citizens alike to champion the nation through decisive actions rather than seeking validation from foreign powers.
Held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja and hosted by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) via its Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG), the summit convened government officials, private sector leaders, and civil society representatives to develop actionable strategies for enhancing Nigeria’s international reputation.
Drawing from his personal experience with diplomatic challenges, Fashola recounted, “I remember when one country told us not to come. I met their representatives elsewhere, and they explained the economic impact of our absence. I told them the money is moving elsewhere. I wasn’t begging. I was standing up for my country.” His remarks highlighted the need for proactive defense of Nigeria’s interests and image.
Fashola emphasized the critical role of newly appointed ambassadors, insisting they must be thoroughly briefed on Nigeria’s policies, economic priorities, tax laws, investment incentives, and business environment before deployment. He urged diplomats to attract foreign investment and promote Nigeria as a hub for business, tourism, and cultural exchange, rather than relying on ministerial visits abroad to secure attention.
Cultural influence, Fashola noted, is another vital tool for national reputation. From music, fashion, and cuisine to Nollywood and other creative industries, these exports serve as powerful soft diplomacy instruments. He encouraged showcasing Nigeria’s cultural vibrancy through conventions, exhibitions, and immersive experiences for international visitors.
The summit also unveiled Nigeria’s first National Reputation Perception Index (NRPI) by NIPR, which scored the country 35.2 out of 100, indicating a “high potential, low trust” scenario. Culture emerged as Nigeria’s strongest asset, while leadership, social equity, innovation, and communication were identified as areas requiring urgent improvement.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, urged all stakeholders, citizens, institutions, and the private sector to take collective responsibility for enhancing Nigeria’s image. “The report is not a verdict on Nigeria. It is a mirror. We must have the courage to look into that mirror and act,” he said.
NIPR President Ike Neliaku addressed concerns over the $9 million US PR engagement, clarifying that scrutiny focused on process and vendor competence, not the legitimacy of using professional PR to manage Nigeria’s image.
Fashola concluded with a call for coordinated action: ambassadors must be equipped, cultural assets leveraged, governance and security strengthened, and communication executed with honesty, consistency, and clarity to both domestic and international audiences.
The summit drew key dignitaries, including Pauline Tallen, former Minister of Women Affairs; Olalekan Fadolapo, Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria; Jibrin Baba-Ndace, Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria; alongside media and PR professionals—underscoring the imperative of a unified effort to elevate Nigeria’s global brand.
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