Nigeria set to appoint Ambassadors after months of delay! Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and a key Western ally in the fight against Islamist insurgents in West Africa, has been without ambassadors since September 2023. The prolonged absence of diplomatic representation has raised concerns among foreign allies and weakened Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements.
Delays Due to Budget Constraints
The Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs previously attributed the delay in appointing ambassadors to a lack of funds. However, sources now indicate that the issue is being resolved, and new appointments will be announced soon.
A government official, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, confirmed that progress was being made.
“The issue is being resolved, and that means the appointment will be announced very soon,” the source said.
Nigeria set to appoint Ambassadors
Security Screening of Ambassadorial Candidates
Before new ambassadors can be appointed, Nigeria’s security services are conducting background checks on potential candidates. An intelligence official revealed that these findings are already being shared with relevant agencies within the Presidency and the National Assembly.
While a Presidency spokesperson directed inquiries to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ministry declined to comment on the matter.
The lack of ambassadorial appointments has left many key Nigerian embassies worldwide without senior diplomats, affecting both bilateral relations and consular services for Nigerians abroad.
Foreign Policy Taking a Back Seat
Since assuming office in May 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has focused primarily on economic reforms, with foreign policy receiving less attention.
A former Nigerian ambassador who previously served in Africa and the United States confirmed that the absence of ambassadors has been raised in diplomatic discussions between Tinubu and foreign leaders.
“Assurance had been given that they will soon be appointed,” the former ambassador stated.
Despite these assurances, the prolonged delay has strained Nigeria’s global diplomatic engagements, particularly in regions where Nigerian diplomats play a crucial role in security cooperation, trade negotiations, and foreign investments.
Budget Allocated for Foreign Missions
The Nigerian government has allocated ₦302.4 billion ($198.30 million) in the 2024 budget to support the country’s foreign missions. This funding is expected to cover operational expenses, diplomatic activities, and the long-overdue appointment of ambassadors.
Analysts suggest that the allocation should be sufficient to resume full diplomatic functions, provided the funds are effectively managed.
Why the Appointment of Ambassadors Matters
1. Strengthening Diplomatic Relations
Without ambassadors, Nigeria has been less active in major diplomatic discussions, missing opportunities to strengthen ties with international partners.
2. National Security and Counterterrorism
As a key ally in combating Islamist insurgents in West Africa, Nigeria relies on strong diplomatic ties with Western and African nations to coordinate intelligence-sharing and security cooperation. The absence of ambassadors has slowed these efforts.
3. Economic and Trade Partnerships
With Tinubu’s administration focusing on economic recovery, Nigeria needs ambassadors in strategic trade partner nations to attract foreign investments and improve economic diplomacy.
4. Consular Services for Nigerians Abroad
Many Nigerian citizens living abroad depend on embassies for passports, visas, and legal assistance. The lack of ambassadors has disrupted consular services, leaving many without proper representation.
What Happens Next?
As security agencies complete their background checks, President Tinubu is expected to announce the list of new ambassadors soon. Once nominated, the National Assembly will conduct confirmation hearings before the appointees can officially take up their posts.
Foreign policy experts and Nigerian diplomats hope that the new appointees will restore Nigeria’s global presence and improve diplomatic efficiency.
With increasing global economic challenges, security threats, and diplomatic expectations, the timely appointment of ambassadors will be crucial in advancing Nigeria’s international interests.
