Nigeria is preparing to boost its global image and attract more investors through the launch of a national opportunity compendium that will highlight the country’s economic, tourism, and cultural strengths.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this during a meeting with officials of the Nigerian Press Council at Radio House in Abuja.
The delegation, led by the Executive Secretary of the council, Dr. Dili Ezughah, visited the minister to brief him on preparations for the official unveiling of the publication. The launch is scheduled to take place on June 17, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
According to the minister, the project is designed to change negative perceptions about Nigeria by presenting the country’s opportunities in a more positive and factual way. He explained that the publication would showcase the economic and tourism potential available across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Mohammed Idris praised the initiative, describing it as timely and important for national development. He noted that many people often focus only on insecurity and other challenges in Nigeria, while ignoring the country’s rich culture, tourism attractions, natural resources, and investment opportunities.
He said the project supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, especially the government’s plan to reduce dependence on oil and strengthen other sectors such as tourism, culture, and the creative industry.
The minister added that Nigeria is more than an oil-producing nation, stressing that the country possesses vast cultural heritage and untapped opportunities capable of attracting local and foreign investors.
He also commended the partnership between the Nigerian Press Council, the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, and other agencies involved in the project. According to him, such collaboration reflects the government’s commitment to working together to improve the nation’s economy and global reputation.
Idris further explained that the publication would provide credible and detailed information for investors and members of the international community seeking opportunities in Nigeria. He assured the organisers of the support of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation toward ensuring a successful launch.
The minister also acknowledged the support of Vice President Kashim Shettima for helping to give the initiative national recognition.
Earlier during the meeting, Dr. Dili Ezughah explained that the idea behind the project came from discussions among government institutions on the need to promote Nigeria positively on the global stage.
He stated that the publication would serve as a valuable guide for investors, diplomatic missions, development agencies, chambers of commerce, and Nigerians living abroad. The document is expected to contain detailed information about the economic strengths and tourism potential of every state in Nigeria.
Also speaking, the lead consultant for the project, Tajudeen Toyin-oke, revealed that the compendium contains profiles of all the states and the FCT. He said it includes information on investment opportunities, tourism sites, mineral resources, tax incentives, infrastructure, and population figures.
According to him, the document is designed to become a trusted global reference for anyone interested in learning about Nigeria’s business and tourism environment.
The Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Dr. Ola Awakan, described the initiative as a major step toward promoting Nigeria’s rich tourism and cultural heritage internationally.
He noted that Nigeria has enormous tourism potential and many unique stories that deserve global attention. He added that the project would help improve the country’s image and attract more international interest.
The delegation also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu is expected to write the foreword to the publication, while Vice President Kashim Shettima will provide the preface.
