By Joy Odor Abuja
The Federal Government has advised Nigerians traveling abroad to notify and register with Nigerian embassies and consulates in their host countries to enable timely support in cases of emergencies and to avoid unnecessary mistreatment.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, gave the advice while receiving a delegation from the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN), led by its Chairman, Idehai Frederick, during a courtesy visit to the Ministry in Abuja on Wednesday.
Ambassador Dunoma cited a recent incident involving Nigerians stranded in the Central African Republic, where misinformation spread online sought to discredit the Ministry’s efforts.
He stressed the importance of early engagement with Nigerian missions rather than only seeking help when crises occur.
“I advise Nigerians to make it a point of duty to make their presence known to the Nigerian mission in the country they’re visiting. This simple step can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that Nigerians receive the support they need in times of crisis,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary emphasized that early communication with embassies and consulates is crucial for the protection of Nigerian citizens abroad.
He also called for stronger collaboration between the Ministry and DICAN in fighting disinformation and projecting a positive image of Nigeria globally.
“Timely dissemination of accurate information is critical in managing crises effectively,” Ambassador Dunoma stated. “We are saddled with the role of laundering the image of the country. Strengthening our partnership with DICAN will help ensure that accurate narratives about Nigeria are shared locally and internationally.”
He lauded DICAN for organizing the maiden Diplomatic, Security and International Conference, which he described as a world-class event that brought together about 70 stakeholders, including diplomats, security experts, academics, and civil society organizations, to discuss global security and the role of Nigeria’s 4Ds Policy under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Ambassador Dunoma commended the conference for contributing to national discourse and promoting Nigeria’s foreign policy goals amid challenges of disinformation.
“By working together, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and DICAN can promote a more accurate understanding of Nigeria’s role in international affairs and counter negative narratives. We must be proactive and patriotic in pushing the positive stories of our country,” he added.
During the visit, DICAN Chairman Idehai Frederick presented an award of excellence to the Permanent Secretary in recognition of his commitment to public diplomacy and support for the media.
He also urged the Ministry to provide more support to enable DICAN fulfill its agenda-setting role in promoting Nigeria’s global image.
“The Permanent Secretary has shown great commitment to working with DICAN, and we appreciate his efforts in promoting a positive image of Nigeria,” Frederick said.
