By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
Minister urges NIPR to fostal national unity, strengthen bilateral relationships
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has urged the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to leverage strategic communication to promote Nigeria’s image and strengthen its bilateral relations on the global stage.
Tuggar made the call in a message delivered by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Mr Alkasim Abdulkadir, during the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG) Retreat on Tuesday in Abuja.
The NRMG, an initiative of NIPR, aims to reshape Nigeria’s global perception and national narrative.
He stated that in an era of contested and often manipulated media spaces, the role of public relations professionals had become critical, not just in managing reputations but in defining Nigeria’s story with clarity, integrity, and purpose.
Tuggar called on the NRMG to view its mission as a national one, beyond institutional boundaries, emphasising the need to promote a unified ethos built on resilience, innovation, and shared national values.
“The NRMG is uniquely positioned to reclaim Nigeria’s narrative, correct misrepresentations, amplify achievements, and highlight our leaders as custodians of democratic accountability.
“Your role in fighting fake news, disinformation, and foreign manipulation is vital,” he said.
He added that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, communication must also serve as a diplomatic tool to foster unity, attract investment, and reinforce Nigeria’s voice globally.
NIPR President, Dr Ike Neliaku, said the issue with Nigeria’s reputation was not the absence of success stories but a failure to tell them adequately.
He cited achievements such as the Super Falcons’ recent victory and the global recognition of young Nigerian talents.
“We under-tell our stories and over-tell those of others. It’s time to change that.
“Nigeria remains the greatest country on earth by many standards. Narrative and storytelling will reshape our global image,” Neliaku said.
Also speaking, Mr John Momoh, Chairman of the NRMG Body of Advisers, commended the Super Falcons for their recent Women’s Africa Cup of Nations victory.
He described it as more than a sporting milestone, calling it a powerful story of resilience and excellence.
Momoh emphasised that national reputation must be built not only on image but on consistent performance and values.
“The world hears about our setbacks, but not our strengths. Our task is to build a unified, credible, and compelling national narrative.”
The retreat attracted key stakeholders in communication, public relations, and national development sectors.
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