International Protocol Officers have strongly condemned the abuse of Nigerian flag by various state governments, agencies, and organizations. Particularly, they criticized the addition of the country’s coat of arms onto state flags, deeming it an inappropriate alteration. In response, the officers are calling for an immediate review of this practice to preserve the flag’s integrity. This stance appeared in a communique issued after the International Protocol Officers Conference (IPOC) at NIGAV Expo Event Centre, Lagos. Also, protocol officers urged the IPOC coordinator to seek guidance from authorities and launch a campaign against flag abuse.
Additionally, the group plans to urge the government to review and modernize The National Order of Precedence for public officers. This order has remained unchanged since its establishment in the Public Officer and Other Persons Bill of 2000, necessitating updates.
They stressed that updating these guidelines would provide much-needed clarity and alignment with the nation’s evolving diplomatic needs. As part of their recommendations, IPOC proposed developing national protocol guidelines to ensure a standardized approach to state ceremonies across Nigeria. This uniform approach to state ceremonies would promote national harmony and cohesion, strengthening protocol practices throughout the country.
Furthermore, IPOC highlighted the need to professionalize protocol work by integrating it into the civil service career progression structure. To support this aim, they proposed creating the Council for International Protocol Profession and a Centre for Protocol Professional Development. These institutions would enhance protocol officers’ skills and impact, while establishing an African platform to promote harmony and governance standards. Additionally, IPOC urged all organizations to provide detailed, protocol-specific training for officers and ensure only trained personnel handle protocol roles, especially in critical airport settings.
The IPOC conference, Africa’s largest annual gathering of protocol professionals, attracts officers from all sectors and states across Nigeria. Its purpose is to facilitate knowledge-sharing, encourage best practices, and address important topics like abuse of Nigerian flag in state protocols, as well as matters related to border cooperation and travel facilitation. IPOC’s peer-review sessions provide a platform for evaluating current practices and addressing international travel standards and intergovernmental issues affecting Nigeria.
IPOC aims to improve travel facilitation, promote fair inter-border exchanges, and monitor government efforts to streamline passport and port processes. The group also praised the recent installation of electronic gate systems at international airports, calling it “revolutionary” for Nigeria’s travel sector. Additionally, they commended Interior Minister Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and Aviation Minister Mr. Festus Keyamo for their support of this initiative. IPOC recognized Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, for enhancing airport services and eradicating touting.
