The former Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, has said that Nigeria is made up of many nations forged into one country, asserting that a proper understanding of this distinction is critical to shaping the nation’s global reputation and brand.
Fashola highlighted the importance of national reputation, image and branding, noting that the actions of citizens directly affect Nigeria’s standing in the international community.
He made the remarks at the Inaugural Nigeria Reputation Summit 2026, held in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, on Tuesday.
According to him, Nigeria’s reputation has tangible economic consequences, noting that factors such as insurance costs for ocean freight are influenced by how countries are perceived globally.
“What we do or fail to do affects us in many more ways than we have probably paid attention to. Our daily livelihoods, our cost of living, are deeply connected to this intangible but priceless asset of our collective reputation,” he stated.
The former Lagos State governor warned that major national events could either enhance or damage the country’s image, describing them as a “reputation coup or a reputation disaster,” depending on how they are managed.
Reflecting on his experience while serving in government, Fashola recounted conversations with foreign officials who viewed Abuja as the best-planned city in Africa, while he often encouraged visitors to also experience Lagos. He explained that such perceptions show how external views shape Nigeria’s brand.
Fashola commended organisers of the summit, describing their efforts as an act of patriotism and problem-solving, rather than mere criticism.
He cited Section 24 of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the duties of citizens, including the responsibility to “enhance the power, the prestige, and the good name of Nigeria,” and to defend the country whenever required.
“It is a duty imposed on all of us, without exception,” he remarked, urging Nigerians to read and understand the Constitution written in “simple English.”
Addressing frequent claims that Nigeria is “not a nation,” Fashola argued that such statements are often taken out of context.
“We are many nations, not one nation. But those many nations have been forged into a country. There is a difference between a nation and a country, and we must be clear about what we are presenting to the world under the banner of Nigeria,” he explained.
Fashola emphasised that Nigeria is not unique in this structure, adding that several countries around the world are also composed of multiple nations united under one state.
Sharing a personal story from his childhood, Fashola recalled travelling abroad unaccompanied with his siblings in 1976, an experience he acknowledged shaped his understanding of national identity and citizenship.
He further encouraged Nigerians to be mindful of what they say and do in public discourse, stressing that collective behaviour ultimately defines the country’s reputation and global brand.
