The Federal Government has urged Nigerians, professionals, institutions, and the private sector to take shared responsibility for building and protecting the country’s global reputation through transparent communication and measurable progress.
Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the Nigeria Reputation Summit 2026, where Nigeria’s first National Reputation Perception Index, developed by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), was unveiled.
According to Idris, the index provides a clear picture of how Nigeria is perceived domestically and internationally. “The report is not a verdict on Nigeria. It is a mirror. As a responsible nation, we must look into that mirror and act,” he said.
The Minister commended NIPR and the Nigerian Reputation Management Group for producing the index after several years of research, noting that building a national reputation is a long-term process requiring consistency and discipline.
Idris acknowledged that the index places Nigeria in a low-trust category but highlighted progress made in the last two years under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. “While perception often lags behind reality, progress is being made. It must be communicated clearly and consistently,” he said.
He noted that the country has experienced 27 uninterrupted years of democracy, with open political participation and one of the freest media environments globally. These achievements, he said, support leadership, credibility, and trust, which are central to national reputation.
On governance and economic reforms, Idris cited measures aimed at strengthening local government autonomy, improving security through community-focused initiatives, removing fuel subsidies, and unifying the foreign exchange system. “These decisions were necessary. Today, inflation is easing, growth is stabilising, and foreign reserves are improving,” he said.
Idris also highlighted ongoing investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, and youth-focused innovation programs, including student loans and venture funding for young entrepreneurs.
Addressing negative narratives about Nigeria, particularly claims of religious intolerance, the Minister said such reports do not reflect the country’s true character. “Nigeria is not a nation of intolerance. We are correcting false narratives through diplomacy, security measures, and engagement with partners,” he said.
He emphasised that the government alone cannot shape Nigeria’s reputation.
“Reputation is earned through action, not slogans. It is built when policy meets purpose and communication reflects truth. Every Nigerian has a role to play,” Idris said, urging citizens and professionals to promote unity, counter false narratives, and present the nation accurately.
