Nigeria has taken a significant step toward redefining its image and global positioning with the official launch of the Visit Nigeria Initiative, a national project designed to reshape perceptions, attract investment, and promote tourism.
The initiative was unveiled at a private launch event where organisers outlined its strategic framework and announced Charmaine Hayden as the initiative’s inaugural Brand Ambassador. The project, proudly endorsed and supported by the Federal Government, is positioned as a comprehensive national movement aimed at placing Nigeria firmly on the global map for tourism, innovation, and opportunity.
In an official statement, the organisers described Visit Nigeria as “more than a tourism campaign.”
According to them, it represents a strategic national initiative built to “reshape global perceptions and drive meaningful engagement” with Nigeria’s culture, creativity, and economic potential.
“At its core, the project seeks to change the narrative about Nigeria by highlighting its true identity — a nation defined by vibrant culture, creativity, innovation, opportunity, and unmatched hospitality,” the statement read. “Through compelling storytelling and strategic partnerships, Visit Nigeria aims to replace outdated stereotypes with an authentic reflection of Nigeria’s dynamic spirit.”
A major component of the initiative is its focus on diaspora engagement and investment mobilisation. The project is designed to act as a structured bridge connecting Nigerians abroad and global investors to opportunities at home. Organisers said Visit Nigeria will offer curated investment pathways in tourism, technology, and the creative industries — sectors they identified as key drivers of Nigeria’s next phase of economic growth.
“By encouraging both financial and intellectual contributions from the diaspora and international partners, Visit Nigeria seeks to strengthen national pride and participation in the country’s development story,” the statement noted.
The project also aims to showcase the diversity of Nigeria’s tourism and cultural heritage. It will leverage digital technology to create a seamless experience for visitors through a one-stop online platform integrating visa applications, travel bookings, cultural guides, and investment resources. This digital infrastructure is expected to make Nigeria more accessible to tourists, investors, and members of the diaspora seeking to connect with the country.
Speaking at the launch, Project Director, Mr Iyad Ghraizi, described the initiative as a global invitation to rediscover Nigeria’s true story — one of “courage, creativity, and unstoppable potential.”
“The Visit Nigeria Initiative is our formal invitation for the world to experience that firsthand,” Ghraizi said. “We are moving beyond talk to building real solutions that welcome the world, engage our global family, and drive economic growth.”
Founded by a team of Nigerian professionals, including Iyad Ghraizi, Kunle Fakeye, Vivienne Aghoghovbia, Alamin Muhammed Uwais, and Kelechi Dozie, the initiative represents a collaborative effort to redefine Nigeria’s international narrative and attract sustainable investment.
To drive its global vision, the initiative appointed Charmaine Hayden, a respected strategist, author, and venture capital advisor, as its first Brand Ambassador. Hayden, known for her work in socio-economic development and women’s leadership, is expected to lead the strategic communication of the project’s economic and cultural agenda.
“This is about more than visibility,” Hayden said. “It’s about building the mental, cultural, and economic infrastructure that enables people to invest in, identify with, and believe in Nigeria’s future. We are creating pathways for meaningful investment and partnership.”
The launch also featured Enoch Hyelaparda Danbaba, a commercial pilot, humanitarian, and Pan-African advocate renowned for his #ChangingTheNarrative campaign. As Nigeria’s first National Youth Ambassador to South Africa, Danbaba has partnered with Visit Nigeria to promote positive representation and national pride among young Nigerians.
“Our story has been told by others for too long,” Danbaba said. “It’s time we take ownership of our narrative. Visit Nigeria is the platform through which we’ll showcase our authenticity, our beauty, and our spirit to the world.”
With its launch, the Visit Nigeria Initiative signals a decisive move to reclaim Nigeria’s narrative and project the country as a leading destination for tourism, culture, commerce, and investment — a reimagined Nigeria ready to welcome the world.
