Nigeria’s participation at the International Investment Fair in Japan has drawn widespread criticism after images and videos emerged online showing the country’s official booth completely unattended, despite the presence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, senior government officials, and business leaders at the event.
The fair, a global platform where nations showcase trade opportunities, investment potential, and cultural identity, became an unexpected source of embarrassment for Africa’s largest economy. While delegations from other countries actively promoted their industries and engaged visitors, Nigeria’s stand was captured looking bare and desolate — “empty like a graveyard,” as many social media users described it.
The irony was not lost on observers. “Check out the Nigerian stand at the International Investment Fair in Japan, where President Tinubu and a horde of government officials and business leaders are currently in attendance… Nobody on our stand,” one viral post lamented.
For many Nigerians, the empty booth has become a symbol of poor planning and weak national branding. Critics argue that it reflects a recurring problem in Nigeria’s approach to international representation — where emphasis is placed on sending large delegations rather than ensuring meaningful presence and productive engagement.
Analysts warn that the optics could have lasting implications. With Japan and other Asian economies increasingly looking toward Africa for trade and resource partnerships, such a lapse undermines Nigeria’s ability to position itself as a credible investment destination.
The incident has sparked calls for accountability, with stakeholders urging the government and organizing agencies to improve coordination and professionalism in future international outings. “What we present to the world matters,” a Lagos-based economist noted. “Investors take cues not just from what leaders say, but from how the nation projects itself. This was a missed opportunity.
”Despite the backlash, some remain optimistic that Nigeria can learn from the misstep. By adopting better planning, involving private sector innovators, and showcasing tangible opportunities in agriculture, technology, and energy, the country can still leverage international fairs to attract much-needed investment.
For now, however, the image of an empty Nigerian booth in the midst of global activity continues to dominate conversations online, leaving many citizens questioning: if this is “what we are,” as one commentator put it, then what message are we really sending to the world?