Nigeria’s ambassador to Mexico, Reno Omokri, has described Nigeria as a leading tourist destination in Africa while encouraging foreign investors to bring their businesses and capital to the country.
Omokri made the remarks as he began a symbolic climb of Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, where he plans to hoist the Nigerian flag as part of an effort to counter what he described as negative propaganda about the country’s security situation.
According to the ambassador, the climb is intended to highlight facts and statistics that portray Nigeria as a safe and economically promising nation for visitors and investors.
Omokri also dedicated his diplomatic posting to Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians, pledging loyalty and commitment to promoting the country’s interests abroad.
Speaking at the start of the climb, he said Nigeria recorded one of the biggest tourism events in Africa in 2025 through the popular “Dirty December” celebrations in Lagos.
“Last year, Nigeria had the single largest touristic event in Africa — Dirty December. About 1.2 million tourists visited Lagos and not one of them encountered insecurity,” Omokri said.
He also cited other cultural and tourism events, including the Ojude Oba Festival, which he said attracted around 200,000 visitors without reported security incidents.
The ambassador further referenced the Argungu Fishing Festival, where he said about 100,000 fishermen and farmers participated before a crowd of approximately 500,000 spectators without any reported violence.
Omokri argued that such events demonstrate that Nigeria remains politically stable and capable of hosting large gatherings safely.
“Nigeria is politically stable and economically prosperous,” he said, adding that the presence of several former presidents living peacefully in the country alongside the incumbent government demonstrates the stability of the political system.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s economic indicators, noting that the country has recorded multiple cycles of GDP growth and trade surpluses in recent years.
According to him, Nigeria’s economy grew by more than four percent in 2025 and is projected by international financial institutions to expand further.
Omokri further pointed to the growth of the Nigerian Exchange Group, saying its All Share Index has risen significantly over the past few years, reflecting increased investor confidence.
Encouraging global investors and tourists, the ambassador said Nigeria’s large manufacturing base and expanding economy make it one of the most promising markets in Africa.
“This is a great country; a secure country; a prosperous country and a stable country,” he concluded.
What you should know
Reno Omokri is a Nigerian political commentator, author, and former presidential aide who has been appointed ambassador to Mexico.
His remarks come amid ongoing debates about Nigeria’s security challenges and economic outlook.
By undertaking the Kilimanjaro climb, he says he hopes to symbolically promote Nigeria’s image globally while encouraging tourism and investment in the country.
