Over the last decade, I have deliberately avoided publicly commenting on Nigeria’s often toxic political discourse.
Two reasons guided this decision.
Any stance invites criticism from all sides, and
My past roles, first as Director of Communication at the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), then as Senior Advisor to its then President, which required strict diplomatic adherence to neutrality on the affairs of member countries.
For the first time in nearly a decade, this rare milestone compels me to speak, as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu receive the full pomp and pageantry of a State Visit from King Charles III at Windsor Castle this week, the first by a Nigerian head of state in 37 years.
For a nation that has long punched above its weight yet sometimes doubted its stride, this is more than ceremonial. It is a powerful invitation for every Nigerian at home and in the Diaspora to pause, reflect, and choose unity over division.
Without denying Nigeria’s many challenges, and setting aside partisanship, it is time to acknowledge the quiet, determined work underway.
President Tinubu’s administration has taken the bull by the horns with bold economic reforms: unifying exchange rates, stabilizing a naira once in freefall, removing unsustainable fuel subsidies, overhauling taxation, and liberalizing key sectors.
Though results remain uneven and unfolding, these systemic shifts, designed for macroeconomic stability, investment unlocking, and sustainable growth, are gaining recognition. The Economist (January 2026) described Nigeria’s economy as potentially “back from the brink,” with painful reforms showing results: inflation dropping sharply (from 34.8% peak to around 15%), naira stabilization, reserves at seven-year highs ($46 billion), and restored investor confidence.
The IMF has called the moves “bold,” praising improvements in forex markets and fiscal management. The World Bank has hailed Nigeria as a “global reference point” for steady, credible reform implementation and results over the past two years.
From the creative industries to agriculture, mining, technology, and renewable energy, Nigeria is repositioning itself as a serious global partner with vast potential, and NOT as a perpetual supplicant. Investor interest is also rising.
The question is: if not now, when?
This State Visit carries deep mutual strategic significance.
For Nigeria, it showcases its reform story and opens doors to fresh capital, technology transfer, and market access in infrastructure, energy, and the blue economy.
For the United Kingdom, it strengthens ties with Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, and pursuing modern partnerships beyond old colonial lenses. Bilateral trade has hit a record £8.1 billion annually. The large Nigerian Diaspora in the UK (professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and families) is a powerful and mutually beneficial asset.
This is and should be a genuine win-win roadmap.
Yet, while the red carpet rolls out in London, some voices at home and abroad remain stuck in perpetual de-branding mode.
Don’t get me wrong. Nigeria faces real issues including leadership gaps, insecurity, and governance challenges. But we have a built-in cycle of demonization that ignores progress. Professional critics seize every headline to paint the nation as hopeless, amplifying setbacks while dismissing strides. Their endless negativity deters investors, demoralizes youth, and markets Nigeria as a risk rather than an opportunity.
Constructive criticism has its place, but weaponized cynicism that de-markets Nigeria at every turn is not patriotism. It is self-sabotage.
Fellow Nigerians, whether in Lagos or London, Abuja or Atlanta, Maiduguri or Manchester, this is our shared moment. The world watches our response to this historic moment. Let us choose pride and opportunity over perpetual complaints and a sense of hopelessness.
To the Nigerian Diaspora, our skills, remittances, and networks already make a difference. Imagine the exponential impact we can still create when we collectively amplify Nigeria’s story instead of diminishing it.
To investors and global partners eyeing Africa’s future, the door is wide open more than ever. Come see the real Nigeria. A dynamic nation brimming with innovative youth that are determined and ready to deliver in a stable and reforming environment.
This State Visit therefore is not the end of a journey but the beginning of a new chapter. Nigeria is rising, and not because the world suddenly noticed us, but because we are choosing to believe in ourselves again.
My humble plea is simple … Let us move forward together, focused, and unapologetically proud and thankful for all that God has endowed us with.
God bless you and God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
