Nigeria To Host Cultural Diplomacy Maiden Conference

Nigeria is set to host its maiden Conference on Cultural Diplomacy to position culture as a pivotal tool for diplomacy, conflict prevention, social cohesion, and sustainable development.

The conference, themed “Building Nations Through Cultural Diplomacy,” is scheduled to be held in Lagos from January 27 to January 28, 2026, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos.

Speaking about the conference, the Convener, Chief Amb Zainab Mohammed, who disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, emphasised that the conference is Nigeria’s first high-level platform dedicated to cultural diplomacy and a response to the growing recognition of culture as a vital, yet underutilised, instrument for diplomacy, conflict prevention, social cohesion, and sustainable development.

This landmark historical event   is being  organised by Zeelee Consult Limited in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA)   and is expected to bring together policymakers, diplomats, cultural practitioners, traditional rulers, academics, private sector leaders, and development partners from within and outside Africa.

Mohammed noted that in an era of global interconnectedness, cultural diplomacy offered countries an avenue to strengthen national identity, project soft power, promote mutual understanding, and harness the economic potential of the creative and cultural industries.

Mohammed added that Africa was at a critical stage where its rich cultural heritage and diversity could be strategically leveraged to support regional integration, inclusive growth, and stronger global engagement.

“The conference would serve as a multi-stakeholder platform for policy dialogue, shared learning, and strategic collaboration among key actors in the cultural and diplomatic space.

“Key areas of discussion will include the role of cultural diplomacy in promoting peace and unity, safeguarding tangible and intangible cultural heritage, advancing creative industries and cultural tourism, and strengthening Africa’s cultural presence globally.

“The programme will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, policy dialogues, cultural exhibitions and performances, interactive sessions, and networking engagements.

“Expected outcomes of the conference include policy recommendations to strengthen cultural diplomacy frameworks in Africa, improved collaboration among diplomatic and cultural institutions, increased advocacy for heritage preservation, and the adoption of a conference communiqué outlining strategic action points.

She described the maiden conference as a significant step towards placing culture at the centre of Nigeria’s and Africa’s diplomatic and development agenda.

She called on media organisations, stakeholders, and members of the public to follow and engage with the initiative as Nigeria leads discussions on cultural diplomacy on the African continent