The Ambassador of Belgium to Nigeria, His Excellency Pieter Leenknegt, has called for a renewed effort to correct the negative global perceptions about Nigeria, stressing that many international audiences remain misinformed about the country.
He made this call while receiving a delegation from Showlate Entertainment Limited at the Belgian Embassy in Abuja, following the success of the Cultural Canvas, Arts, and Festival Exhibition Led by Mr. Ken Gbados, Media Relations, and Publicity consultant, the Showlate team expressed appreciation for the Embassy’s support and explored avenues for future collaboration.
The team included legal adviser Barr. William Umoh, media researcher Mr. Abayomi Soetan, and curator Mr. Daniel Awin.
While commending the Cultural Canvas initiative as a brilliant platform for showcasing Nigerian creativity, Ambassador Leenknegt revealed plans for a Belgian art educator and fashion designer to engage Nigerian artists in a mentorship and exchange programme later in July.
He promised to explore how Showlate Entertainment could be part of that initiative.
“The event had two strong components—art and festival,” the Ambassador noted. “Each deserves its own spotlight. Merging both in one event may reduce the impact.”
He emphasised that although his diplomatic role focuses on promoting Belgian culture in Nigeria, it is incumbent on the Nigerian Embassy in Brussels to project Nigeria’s rich culture and creative excellence to the world.
“Many people outside Nigeria are misinformed about your country. It’s time to change the narrative,” he said, encouraging efforts that challenge outdated stereotypes,” he said.
Ambassador Leenknegt assured that the Embassy would consider including Showlate in its upcoming cultural programs, recognizing the group’s role in fostering cross-cultural understanding.
The visit ended with the presentation of a commemorative photo book to the Ambassador, documenting his participation in the Cultural Canvas exhibition and other events captured by Showlate Entertainment.
