A new national movement called the Visit Nigeria Initiative has been launched to reshape global perceptions of Nigeria and strengthen connections with the diaspora. Endorsed by the Federal Government, the initiative aims to position Nigeria as a top destination for tourism, culture, and investment.
In a statement shared with The Guardian, the initiative’s Communications Office said the project was unveiled at a private event in Abuja. During the event, British-Nigerian strategist and author Charmaine Hayden was announced as the first Brand Ambassador.
Hayden, known as a cultural commentator and former fund manager, has been recognized among the Financial Times’ 100 BAME Tech Leaders and Forbes’ Top 25 Black British Business People. She is the founder of the UK-Ghana Investor Group and advises several African governments on foreign investment strategies.
The Visit Nigeria Initiative is described as a long-term platform combining cultural diplomacy, economic engagement, and digital innovation to attract visitors and investors.
Founder and Project Director Iyad Ghraizi called the initiative a “formal invitation for the world to experience Nigeria firsthand.” He explained that it aims to create practical solutions that welcome global audiences, connect Nigerians abroad, and promote economic growth.
The founding team includes Iyad Ghraizi, Kunle Fakeye, Vivienne Aghoghovbia, Alamin Muhammed Uwais, and Kelechi Dozie.
In her remarks, Hayden said the project is not just about tourism promotion but about building a sustainable national identity and creating economic opportunities.
“This is about more than visibility,” she said. “It’s about building the mental, cultural, and economic infrastructure that helps people invest in, identify with, and believe in Nigeria’s future.”
The launch also featured Enoch Hyelaparda Danbaba, a commercial pilot and humanitarian known for his #ChangingTheNarrative campaign. As Nigeria’s first National Youth Ambassador to South Africa, he announced a partnership with Visit Nigeria to promote positive national representation.
“Our narrative has been written by others for too long,” Danbaba said. “It is time to take ownership of our story. Visit Nigeria is the platform through which we will showcase our authenticity, beauty, and spirit to the world.”
With its launch, the Visit Nigeria Initiative aims to enhance Nigeria’s global image, promote tourism, and strengthen economic partnerships through a united digital and cultural platform.
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