The Federal Government has called for collective action by Nigerians, professionals, institutions and the private sector to strengthen and protect the country’s global reputation through honest communication and demonstrable progress.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, FNIPR, made the call on Tuesday at the Nigeria Reputation Summit 2026 held in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, Idris described the unveiling of Nigeria’s first National Reputation Perception Index by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) as a landmark initiative that provides insight into how the country is perceived at home and abroad.

“The report is not a verdict on Nigeria. It is a mirror. And as a responsible nation, we must have the courage to look into that mirror and act,” the Minister said.

He commended the NIPR, the Nigerian Reputation Management Group and their leadership for producing the index after several years of research, noting that building national reputation is a long-term process that demands discipline, consistency and shared responsibility.

While acknowledging that the report placed Nigeria in a low-trust category, Idris said notable progress had been recorded in the last two years under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to him, perception often lags behind reality, stressing that ongoing reforms must be communicated “clearly, consistently, and honestly.”

The Minister highlighted Nigeria’s democratic credentials, noting that the country has enjoyed 27 uninterrupted years of democracy, with open political participation and one of the freest media environments in the world.

“These are not small achievements. They speak directly to leadership, credibility, and trust, which are at the heart of national reputation,” he said.

On governance and the economy, Idris pointed to reforms aimed at strengthening local government autonomy, improving security through community-based initiatives, and restoring fiscal discipline by removing the fuel subsidy and unifying the foreign exchange system.

“Difficult decisions were taken, but they were necessary decisions. Today, inflation is easing, growth is stabilising, and our foreign reserves are improving,” he stated.

He also drew attention to investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture and youth-focused innovation programmes, including the student loan scheme and venture funding for young entrepreneurs.

Addressing negative narratives about Nigeria in some international quarters, particularly claims of religious intolerance, the Minister said such reports do not reflect the country’s true character.

“Nigeria is not a nation of intolerance. We are actively correcting false narratives through diplomacy, stronger security efforts, and continued engagement with our partners,” he said.

Idris emphasised that government alone cannot shape Nigeria’s reputation, stressing that national image is built through consistent action and truthful communication.

“Reputation is earned through action, not slogans. It is built when policy meets purpose and when communication reflects truth. This is a national task, and every Nigerian has a role to play,” he added.

He urged communication professionals and citizens to promote unity, reject false narratives and project Nigeria with confidence and clarity.