Association of Certified Protocol Practitioners of Nigeria (ACPPN) has called for entrenchment of Order of Precedence in Nigeria in the statute books to ensure smooth conduct of public events.
Protocol professionals from across Nigeria made the call at the virtual roundtable convened by ACPPN, monitored in Yenagoa on Monday.
The highlight of the event was a presentation by Feyisola Adetunji, a seasoned U.S.-based International Engagement and Protocol Consultant, on the theme: “Order of Precedence in Nigeria: Protocol, Power, and Perception.”
Speaking to hundreds of the audience of professionals, policymakers, and event managers, Adetunji emphasized the need for Nigeria to institutionalize and consistently apply order of precedence guides before, during, and after events.
He said: “Precedence is not about ego, it’s about ensuring dignity, order, and public confidence.”.
His session was not only educational but eye-opening for professionals across various sectors.
“Precedence is not merely about status or titles.
“It is a strategic language of respect, clarity, and recognition. It ensures people understand their place, not as a slight, but as a system of service and order.
The expert who approached the topic with a blend of personal anecdotes and public scenarios, underscored how Nigeria’s lack of consistent application of precedence principles often leads to confusion, conflict, and breakdown in event flow.
He recalled his own experience as a protocol lead for a major international conference in 2017, where a simple error in the speaking order almost caused a diplomatic embarrassment.
“The introduction of a House Representative member before a Senator nearly disrupted the event.
“We resolved it quickly, but it highlighted the sensitivity around roles and hierarchy.” he said.
The presentation navigated multiple real-life scenarios that have made headlines in recent years, including: The Governor Soludo redirection incident at Eagle Square underscoring the importance of clear access points and security alignment.
The standoff between Former President Obasanjo and Traditional Rulers in Oyo highlighted the long-standing tensions between constitutional protocol and traditional authority.
He also listed Gov Adeleke and Sen. Basiru clash at Osogbo, where unclear seating arrangements led to public tension during Eid prayers.
According to the expert, these were not just recounted for effect; they were dissected as learning tools, urging protocol officers to understand the influence of politics, perception, and culture in every event.
The emphasis was on proactive planning, empathy, and neutral enforcement of the established order of precedence.
One of the more stirring moments came when Adetunji advocated for citizenship education and legislation to guide the nation.
“The time has come for every public servant, private institutions, protocol officer, and stakeholder to understand what order of precedence is, why it matters, and how to uphold it with dignity.
“We need nationwide awareness and education to avoid preventable protocol breaches.” he said
During the interactive segment, participants raised pertinent questions about the influence of politics and how protocol professionals should maintain integrity as Adetunji gave them the professional guidance.