EFFECT OF NIGERIA’S CULTURAL DIPLOMACY EFFORTS ON NIGERIA’S INTERNATIONAL IMAGE

DespiteNigeria's rich cultural heritage and globally recognised creative industries, the country's international image has not fully reflected the potential of its cultural diplomacy efforts.This study examined the effect of Nigeria's cultural diplomacy efforts on Nigeria's international image, with particular emphasis on international cultural exchange programmes and the promotion of Nigerian cultural and creative industries.A qualitative research approach, employing a phenomenological research design, was adopted.Data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews with eight purposively selected officials from the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy who possessed direct knowledge of Nigeria's cultural diplomacy initiatives.The interview data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis.The findings indicated that international cultural exchange programmes enhanced mutual understanding, strengthened peopleto-people relations, and contributed positively to Nigeria's international image through sustained cultural engagement.The study also found that the promotion of Nigerian cultural and creative industries, particularly music, film, fashion, literature, and the visual arts, significantly increased the country's global visibility and reinforced positive international perceptions despite existing implementation challenges.The study concluded that a well-coordinated cultural diplomacy strategy remains essential for strengthening Nigeria's international reputation and recommended expanding cultural exchange programmes and providing sustained institutional support for the international promotion of Nigeria's creative industries.