Group upholds national image, integrity as path to global respect

As Nigeria celebrates its inaugural Reputation Day today (Wednesday) the nation’s attention was drawn to the importance of individual and collective responsibility in shaping the country’s image.

According to Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, Chairman of the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG), “Our nation’s reputation is more than perception; it is our power.”

The theme of the celebration, “Better Reputation, Better Nigeria!” resonated deeply with Nigerians, both at home and abroad.

Badejo-Okusanya emphasised that the country’s reputation determines how it is received by the world, how investors trust its markets, and how its youth are treated abroad.

“Every act of honesty, every fair transaction, every promise kept, and every truth spoken is the quiet bricks with which we build a more respected Nigeria,” Badejo-Okusanya said.

The NRMG outlined five guiding hallmarks for building and sustaining Nigeria’s national reputation: Consistency, Transparency, Responsibility, Respect, and Excellence. These principles, Badejo-Okusanya noted, are essential for rebuilding and preserving the nation’s character.

As the nation embarks on this journey, Badejo-Okusanya urged Nigerians to join hands with the NRMG in promoting a culture of integrity. “Take up the #BetterReputationBetterNigeria call: pledge one act of integrity, live it daily, inspire others to do the same, and carry Nigeria’s name with pride and honour,” he said.

The NRMG recognises the power of Nigerian youth in shaping the nation’s image and encourages them to be storytellers of a new era. “Let our material achievements rest on ethical foundations. Let our music and art echo dignity, truth, and resilience,” Badejo-Okusanya added.

As Nigeria celebrates its Reputation Day annually on October 15, Badejo-Okusanya is optimistic that the nation can build a better reputation. “The world will believe in Nigeria again when we, as Nigerians, believe enough in ourselves to protect and honour our name,” he said.

With the guiding principle of “Reputation First,” the NRMG is committed to leading national efforts in advocacy, public enlightenment, research, and behavioral reorientation toward rebuilding Nigeria’s reputation.

As the nation looks to the future, one thing is clear: Nigeria’s reputation is built by its people, and it requires constant care. As Badejo-Okusanya put it, “A nation’s reputation is built by its people. It requires constant care, and it reflects who we truly are. Better Reputation, Better Nigeria.”