Rebranding Nigeria: A Call for Positive Projection and Balanced Reportage
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has issued a clarion call to the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to spearhead a rebranding initiative for Nigeria. This initiative should focus on showcasing the nation’s abundant resources and the unique strengths of its subnational entities to the global community. Governor Eno emphasized the pivotal role of the NIPR in shaping a positive narrative for Nigeria, both domestically and internationally. He urged the institute to leverage its expertise to craft compelling stories that attract investors and foster a more favorable perception of the country.
A key concern raised by Governor Eno was the prevailing negativity in Nigerian news reporting, particularly the tendency for "breaking news" to be synonymous with bad news. He challenged the NIPR and the broader media landscape to shift this paradigm by prioritizing stories of progress and development. This change in focus, he argued, is essential to building a positive brand identity for Nigeria and countering the prevalent narrative of negativity. The Governor envisions a scenario where "breaking news" becomes synonymous with positive developments, generating anticipation and optimism rather than apprehension.
Governor Eno further stressed the importance of balanced reporting, especially when it comes to evaluating the performance of leaders. He advocated for an approach that acknowledges both the successes and shortcomings of leaders, offering constructive criticism rather than resorting to outright condemnation. This approach, he believes, fosters a more supportive environment for leadership and encourages continuous improvement. He encouraged highlighting the positive achievements of leaders to create a balanced perspective and motivate them towards better performance. He believes that leaders respond more positively to constructive feedback, leading to improved performance and greater accountability.
The Governor’s call for a positive rebranding of Nigeria aligns with his administration’s development agenda, encapsulated in the ARISE acronym – Agricultural Revolution, Rural Development, Infrastructural Maintenance and Advancement, Security Management, and Educational and Health Sector Management. This agenda prioritizes citizen-centric development, focusing on key areas such as rural development, infrastructural enhancement, security, and education and healthcare.
Dr. Ike Neliaku, President of NIPR, commended Governor Eno’s development strategy, particularly its focus on areas crucial for citizen well-being. He highlighted the transformational potential of the governor’s initiative to convert a 70-hectare gully erosion site into a world-class tourist center. Neliaku assured Governor Eno that the NIPR would actively promote the development initiatives of his administration both within and outside Nigeria. This commitment underscores the NIPR’s recognition of the importance of showcasing positive developments in Akwa Ibom State and their potential to inspire and attract investment.
The partnership between the Akwa Ibom State Government and the NIPR signifies a shared vision for a positively projected Nigeria. By highlighting the state’s development strides, the collaboration aims to demonstrate the potential for positive change and progress across the nation. This strategic alliance leverages the expertise of the NIPR in communication and public relations to amplify the story of Akwa Ibom’s transformation and inspire similar progress nationwide. The collaboration represents a concerted effort to reshape the narrative surrounding Nigeria, shifting from negativity to a focus on the nation’s potential and achievements.
