Former Lagos Deputy Governor’s Top Media Aide Set to Receive Appointment as Tinubu Names New Ambassadors After France, South Africa Trips

Following President Tinubu’s recent state visits to France and South Africa, Nigeria is set to appoint new ambassadors and high commissioners for various countries and international organizations. Sources close to the matter revealed that the list of nominees will be sent to the Senate for approval in early December....CONTINUE READING>>>

This move comes more than a year after 83 ambassadors were recalled in September 2023, and the positions have remained vacant since then, creating a diplomatic void. Nigeria currently operates 109 missions globally, including 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates.

In preparation for the ambassadorial appointments, the Federal Government had started deploying consular officers to diplomatic missions worldwide. The review of Nigeria’s foreign policy by President Tinubu, which began after his inauguration in May 2023, led to the recall of the 83 ambassadors. However, their replacements have been delayed, with government officials citing budget constraints as a factor.

The new ambassadorial nominees, which are expected to include both career diplomats and political appointees, will be subject to a thorough vetting process before being submitted to the Senate for confirmation. Although a specific timeline for their deployment is unclear, it is expected that the new appointees may take several months to assume their positions.

Among those reportedly being considered for ambassadorial roles are high-ranking officials in the President’s media team, as well as influential figures such as a bank founder, a former Lagos Deputy Governor, and a Speaker of a House of Assembly from the North. The delay in appointing new ambassadors has raised concerns over Nigeria’s ability to effectively engage diplomatically on the global stage.