A recent collaboration between a private group and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) aims to mobilize Nigerians abroad to rebrand the country’s image. The partnership seeks to reshape negative narratives and showcase Nigeria’s strengths globally.
The Unveiling and Rebranding Nigeria Initiative (URNI), a non-governmental organization, has teamed up with NIDCOM to launch a collaborative effort to rebrand Nigeria. This initiative focuses on leveraging the vast network of Nigerians living abroad to promote a more positive and accurate image of their home country. The effort is built on the understanding that the diaspora, with its global reach and diverse professional achievements, is uniquely positioned to act as a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy.
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The Unveiling and Rebranding Nigeria Initiative (URNI) says it is collaborating with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) to mobilise the estimated 17 million Nigerians abroad.
The partnership, it said, aims to project a positive image of the country and drive national development.
The partnership aims to:
- Reshape narratives: Challenge and correct the widespread negative stories about Nigeria by highlighting the nation’s cultural heritage, innovation, and diplomatic achievements.
- Mobilize diaspora resources: Encourage Nigerians abroad to invest their resources, skills, and expertise back into Nigeria for developmental causes.
- Promote cultural exchange: Strengthen connections between Nigerians in the diaspora and those at home through cultural activities and partnerships.
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The Role of NIDCOM and URNI
URNI, on the other hand, positions itself as a grassroots driver of national pride. The organization’s chairman, Brigadier-General Buba Shajiaba (Rtd.), stated that the initiative is committed to reshaping narratives through cultural diplomacy, youth engagement, and diaspora mobilization.
As part of this effort, URNI has partnered with various diaspora-based groups, such as the Friends of Nigeria in Europe (FON). The collaboration between NIDCOM and URNI is seen as a transformative step toward uniting Nigerians everywhere to contribute meaningfully to the country’s rebranding.
NIDCOM, established by the National Assembly, has a mandate to engage, empower, and harness the contributions of Nigerians abroad for national development. The commission’s chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has been a strong advocate for the welfare and empowerment of the diaspora. NIDCOM’s involvement in this rebranding campaign aligns with its broader vision of building international confidence in Nigeria through strategic diaspora engagement.
The collaborative effort has already begun with the presentation of URNI’s publication, “Faces of Patriotism,” which celebrates exemplary Nigerians. The group also unveiled its strategic roadmap for national rebranding, which seeks to align its programs with NIDCOM’s flagship initiatives. The partnership aims to showcase Nigeria’s strengths and talents globally, demonstrating the country’s vast potential in areas like investment, innovation, and diplomacy. This collaboration reinforces the belief that a united effort between Nigerians at home and abroad is essential for building a Nigeria that commands respect on the global stage.
