The National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has taken a significant step towards strengthening national image-building, responsible citizenship, and positive international relations following an engagement with the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr Lanre Issa-Onilu.
The engagement, tagged “An Evening with the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency,” provided an opportunity to discuss the need for collaboration on the national campaign to encourage Nigerians to represent the country positively in their interactions with the international community.
The meeting focused on the importance of promoting patriotism, responsible communication, cultural understanding, and constructive engagement with other countries, particularly at a time when Nigeria continues to pursue stronger diplomatic relations, international partnerships, trade, investment, and economic cooperation.
The NACCIMA delegation representing the National President, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, for the engagement included NACCIMA China Relations Executive, Arc. Zakirudeen Oladotun; NACCIMA National Public Relations Officer, Mrs Madinat Adigun-Oladotun; and a seasoned communications specialist, Mr Ismail Omipidan.
Speaking on the significance of the proposed initiative, NACCIMA emphasised that every Nigerian, whether at home or abroad, has a responsibility to protect the country’s image and contribute to its reputation as a credible partner in the global community.
The Association expressed concerns over the growing tendency for some individuals to circulate misleading narratives, engage in the blackmail of international partners, or make irresponsible public statements capable of undermining Nigeria’s diplomatic relationships and economic interests.
NACCIMA expressed appreciation to Mr Lanre Issa-Onilu for granting the delegation an audience and for his willingness to consider the proposed initiative.
The delegation commended his remarkable roles at the National Orientation Agency, noting that his introduction of key programmes to inculcate in young Nigerians core citizenship values has made the agency more visible and alive to its responsibilities of promoting patriotism and value re-orientation, as well as communicating government policies for an informed citizenry.
NACCIMA said it looks forward to exploring a strategic collaboration with the National Orientation Agency to develop public enlightenment programmes that will educate Nigerians on responsible international engagement, national image management, cultural diplomacy, and the economic value of maintaining positive relationships with other nations.
The proposed campaign is envisaged to engage business communities, young people, media practitioners, professional associations, and other relevant stakeholders in promoting a more informed and constructive national narrative.
As Nigeria deepens its international trade and investment relationships, NACCIMA recognises that the country’s reputation is an important asset in attracting foreign investors, facilitating business partnerships, and opening new markets for Nigerian products and services.
The engagement marks an important step towards exploring a shared vision of a Nigeria whose citizens are informed, patriotic, globally responsible, and committed to building bridges rather than barriers
