Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, urged Nigerians traveling abroad to notify the Nigerian embassy or consulate in their host country upon arrival.
Speaking during a meeting with members of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) in Abuja, Ambassador Ahmed stressed the importance of early registration to ensure swift support in emergencies.
He referred to a recent situation in the Central African Republic where some Nigerians were stranded. According to him, the ministry came under unfair criticism, especially online, despite not being formally notified of the individuals’ presence in the country.
“The ministry and our missions are fully committed to assisting citizens abroad, but people must do their part by letting us know when they arrive. Reaching out only when trouble starts makes intervention more difficult,” he said.
The meeting, led by DICAN Chairman Idehai Frederick, focused on improving communication between the Ministry and the media, particularly in addressing public concerns related to Nigerians abroad.
“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.
“There was a recent case of Nigerians trapped in Central African Republic, where some Nigerians tried to give the Ministry a bad name,” he said.
Ambassador Dunoma while highlighting the importance of timely information dissemination, also called for a deeper collaboration between the Ministry and the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) in order to combat disinformation and misinformation.
He said DICAN and the ministry share a common goal of promoting a positive image of Nigeria.
“Most of the time, given the necessary information before people will even ask for information is crucial in managing crises effectively.
“We are saddled with the role of laundering the image of the country hence the inevitability of a strengthened partnership between DICAN and the ministry.
“This partnership is crucial in ensuring that accurate information about Nigeria is disseminated to the public, both locally and internationally,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary expressed gratitude to DICAN for organising the recent maiden Diplomatic, Security International Conference that brought about together about seventy diplomats, security, intelligence, academics, corporate organisations, civil societies among other stakeholders to brainstorm on how to make the world a safer and better place to live.
He stated that the conference which is qualified to make Guinness World Records has enriched discussions on security and the impact of the 4Ds Policy direction of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s in enhancing Nigeria’s foreign image in the face of disinformation.
“I thank DICAN for putting the programme together, it has enriched discuss on security and promote a positive image of Nigeria as well as ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens abroad.
“By working together, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and DICAN can promote a more accurate understanding of Nigeria’s role in international affairs and address the challenges posed by disinformation and misinformation.
“We have a lot of challenges, but it is our duty to ensure that the positive narrative is given out there, because we have to be patriotic.
“I think we need to sit down, work together and see how we can also be proactive,” he stated.
Presenting an award of excellence to the Permanent Secretary, the Chairman of DICAN, Idehai Frederick, solicited more support to ensure that the association carries out its agenda setting programmes.
“The Permanent Secretary has shown commitment to working with DICAN, and we appreciate his efforts in promoting a positive image of Nigeria,” Comrade Idehai said.