FG urges Nigerians abroad to register with embassies for timely assistance

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, has urged Nigerians travelling abroad to register with the Nigerian mission in their host countries to enable timely intervention during emergencies.

Ahmed made the appeal on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) led by its chairman, Idehai Frederick, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

Citing a recent incident where Nigerians were trapped in the Central African Republic, the permanent secretary said many failed to inform the embassy of their presence until they encountered trouble, and some individuals, particularly on social media, attempted to tarnish the ministry’s image.

“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.

Ahmed also called for closer collaboration between the ministry and DICAN to combat misinformation and disinformation, stressing that both 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 commended DICAN for organising the maiden Diplomatic, Security and International Conference, which brought together about 70 diplomats, security experts, academics, corporate bodies, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to discuss global security and Nigeria’s foreign image.

He said the conference has contributed to discourse on security and advanced the understanding of the Tinubu administration’s “4Ds” foreign policy direction 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.”

During the visit, DICAN presented an award of excellence to the permanent secretary.

“The Permanent Secretary has shown commitment to working with DICAN, and we appreciate his efforts in promoting a positive image of Nigeria,” Frederick said.