Brasília, Brazil – A recent bilateral meeting between Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Brazilian counterpart, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has inadvertently sparked discussion regarding official delegation seating arrangements, particularly within the context of Nigeria’s diverse political landscape.

The meeting, held at the Copacabana Forte in Brazil and aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two nations, featured President Tinubu flanked by Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State. This specific seating configuration has drawn criticism from strategic communications expert Dr. Uche Nworah, who argues it sends “the wrong signals” given Nigeria’s complex regional and ethnic considerations.

Taste the Goodness: EL Blends All-Natural Cold-Pressed Juices

Dr. Nworah, a veteran in public relations, emphasized the critical role of optics in political communication. “Every word, statement, or photograph means something and is subject to public scrutiny,” he stated.

From a PR standpoint, the image of the President flanked exclusively by governors from a specific region raises questions, especially for an administration that has faced accusations of running a lopsided government or one perceived to be skewed towards particular regional interests.

He underscored that such arrangements do little to “dissuade the naysayers” and can fuel existing narratives about imbalanced representation.

Dr. Nworah, a member of the President’s party, APC,  highlighted the local implications, noting that such “sins” would need to be defended before the electorate when the time comes, reinforcing the adage that “every politics is local.”

The incident serves as a pertinent reminder to presidential aides and minders about the meticulous attention required for protocol and representation at official functions, both at home and abroad.

In a nation where regional and ethnic interests are paramount, careful consideration of delegation composition and seating arrangements is crucial for maintaining perceptions of inclusivity and national unity.