National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has begun moves to strengthen national image-building, responsible citizenship and positive international relations.
This followed an engagement tagged “An Evening with the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency” with the Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, in Abuja.
The engagement provided a platform to discuss collaboration on a national campaign that will encourage Nigerians to represent the country positively in their interactions with the international community.
The meeting focused on promoting patriotism, responsible communication, cultural understanding and constructive engagement with other nations, at a time when Nigeria is pursuing stronger diplomatic relations, international partnerships, trade, investment and economic cooperation.
The NACCIMA delegation, which represented the National President, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, comprised the NACCIMA China Relations Executive, Arc. Zakirudeen Oladotun; National Public Relations Officer, Hajia Madinat Adigun-Oladotun; and seasoned communications specialist, Mr. Ismail Omipidan.
Speaking on the proposed initiative, NACCIMA stressed that every Nigerian, whether at home or in the diaspora, has a responsibility to protect the country’s image and project it as a credible partner in the global community.
The Association expressed concern over the growing tendency of some individuals to circulate misleading narratives, blackmail international partners and make irresponsible public statements capable of undermining Nigeria’s diplomatic relationships and economic interests.
NACCIMA commended Issa-Onilu for repositioning NOA and introducing key programmes to inculcate core citizenship values in young Nigerians, noting that the agency has become more visible and alive to its mandate of promoting patriotism, value re-orientation and communicating government policies.
According to the Association, the proposed collaboration will develop public enlightenment programmes to educate Nigerians on responsible international engagement, national image management, cultural diplomacy and the economic value of maintaining positive relations with other nations.
It added that the campaign will engage business communities, young people, media practitioners, professional associations and other stakeholders, noting that Nigeria’s reputation remains a critical asset in attracting foreign investors, facilitating business partnerships and opening new markets for Nigerian products and services.
