President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official visit to Brazil for a high-level bilateral meeting with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has stirred debate back home in Nigeria, not for the outcomes of the meeting, but for the optics of those seated at his side.

During the strategic engagement held at the historic Copacabana Forte in Rio de Janeiro, President Tinubu was flanked by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the two countries in trade, energy, and culture.

However, the image of the President surrounded exclusively by governors from the South-West, region has raised concerns in political and civic circles, with critics pointing to the symbolic implications in a country as ethnically and regionally diverse as Nigeria.

Communication expert and public affairs commentator Dr. Uche Nworah, writing on his Facebook page, described the arrangement as “tone-deaf,” adding that “in a country where regional balance and inclusion are not just symbolic but politically crucial, such visuals send the wrong message.”

“It’s not just about who is physically present. It’s about what their presence—or absence—represents,” Nworah said.

Observers argue that greater attention should be paid to protocol at such high-level international engagements to reflect Nigeria’s federal character and avoid fueling perceptions of regional favouritism.

While the presidency has yet to comment on the controversy, insiders insist the delegation was determined by availability and scheduling. Still, the backlash highlights the delicate balancing act required in Nigeria’s political landscape, where optics often outweighs outcomes.

As Nigeria continues to seek stronger ties abroad, analysts say that attention to symbolic details, such as seating arrangements, could help reinforce the unity and diversity that the country aspires to project. (The Guardian, but headline rejigged)