Manny Ita –
Stakeholders in the creative and diplomatic sectors have called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to strategically deploy the nation’s rich cultural assets as a primary tool for enhancing its global reputation and soft power. Speaking at a national symposium on “Culture and Diplomacy” held in Abuja on February 4, 2026, industry leaders argued that while Nigeria’s economic and security challenges often dominate international headlines, its music, film, fashion, and arts offer an untapped pathway to reshaping the country’s narrative. The experts emphasized that a “culture-first” foreign policy would not only attract foreign direct investment but also provide a buffer against negative stereotypes that have historically dogged the nation’s image.
Highlighting the global success of Nigerian creative exports, the symposium’s keynote speaker noted that the international dominance of Afrobeats and Nollywood has already laid a foundation for what they termed “Cultural Diplomacy.” The speaker stated that “Nigeria is a cultural superpower, yet we have failed to integrate this into our formal diplomatic missions,” further asserting that “we must move beyond accidental success and begin an intentional promotion of our heritage to tell the Nigerian story from our own perspective.” The forum urged the Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy to collaborate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to establish cultural centers in key global capitals, similar to the British Council or Alliance Française, to serve as hubs for Nigerian innovation and tradition.
In response to the calls, government representatives at the event acknowledged the need for a more structured approach to cultural branding. Officials noted that the “Renewed Hope” agenda seeks to elevate the creative economy into a major foreign exchange earner, though they admitted that infrastructure and funding remains a challenge. “The government is committed to creating the enabling environment where our artists can thrive not just as entertainers, but as ambassadors of the Nigerian brand,” an official stated. The symposium concluded with a recommendation for the Federal Government to initiate a “Global Nigerian Festival” rotation across major continents, aimed at showcasing the nation’s diverse ethnicities and artistic excellence to foster a more positive and attractive international identity.
