Former UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson has pushed back against persistent foreign reports portraying Nigeria as unsafe, insisting during a visit to Imo State that he felt “perfectly safe” and urging the world to look beyond negative stereotypes.
Johnson made the remarks on Thursday at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri, where he addressed business leaders, policymakers, and investors. Reflecting on the concerns he encountered before travelling, he said:
“When I decided to come to Owerri, I read some things, and there were people saying, ‘There may be some security problems in Nigeria.’ Have you heard that? And I said, ‘Well, I am going to go anyway.’
And let me ask you: do you feel safe here today in this conference? Yes, we all feel safe. And I feel perfectly safe. Thank you, Governor, for what you are doing.”
Challenging Negative Narratives
Johnson’s comments reinforce his long-standing view that global portrayals of Nigeria often skew negative, overshadowing the country’s stability, dynamism, and economic promise. While acknowledging that Nigeria has faced challenges—from insurgency in the northeast to banditry in other regions—he argued that these headlines do not define the entire nation.
Analysts note that his words serve both as a diplomatic gesture and an attempt to reframe Nigeria’s image for international investors. Owerri, like many rapidly developing Nigerian cities, has recently increased security and infrastructure investments, particularly in preparation for high-profile events such as the summit.
Praise for Imo’s Economic Vision
During the event, Johnson also commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for his ambitious development agenda, particularly the drive to provide 24-hour electricity across Imo State—an initiative Johnson described as critical for turning the region into an economic powerhouse.
He further emphasized that artificial intelligence would play a major role in realising this vision:
“AI is the future,” Johnson said, noting that new technologies could transform power delivery, improve governance efficiency, and unlock new investment opportunities across the state.
Optimism Meets Reality
Though Johnson’s message was largely optimistic, his remarks have stirred debate. Supporters argue that his perspective helps counteract narratives that discourage investment and reduce Nigeria to its security issues. Critics, however, contend that foreign dignitaries often experience the country through extraordinary layers of protection and that their declarations of safety do not reflect the day-to-day experiences of ordinary Nigerians.
Still, Johnson’s presence and his emphatic dismissal of negative portrayals have reinvigorated discussions about how Nigeria should be represented on the global stage.
A Positive Signal to Investors
By stepping into Owerri despite cautionary warnings and speaking confidently about safety and opportunity, Johnson signaled strong endorsement for Nigeria’s—and particularly Imo State’s—economic potential. His remarks underscore a broader message: that while challenges exist, Nigeria remains a vibrant, resilient nation with significant room for growth in technology, energy, and infrastructure.
As the summit concluded, Johnson’s voice added momentum to Governor Uzodimma’s narrative of a state—and a country—on the cusp of transformation.
