ABUJA – The Nigerian Information Ministry has unveiled a new image building slogan “Nigeria: Good people, great country”.
Information Minister Dora Akunyili, who made her name as a fierce campaigner against fake drugs, said the country’s reputation was unfair.
“We must shed this toga that says we are untrustworthy, unreliable and ungovernable,” she said.
She admitted that the country did have real problems with poverty, corruption and infrastructure, but that wouldn’t stop them trying.
“Some people say: ‘Why rebrand now?’ Nigeria cannot wait until it solves all its problems before addressing its image.”
A better image would improve tourism and encourage businesses to invest in Nigeria, she said. As Nigerian’s own perception of themselves improved they would be less inclined to commit crime.
The previous administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo had a similar campaign to improve Nigeria’s image called “Heart of Africa”.
Local media reported that the government spent $5.6million (£4million) on it in one year.
It was scrapped by Mrs Akunyili last year. The minister last week promised the National Assembly the “good people great country” campaign will cost a lot less, and spending will be transparent
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