Delay in Appointing New Ambassadors Raises Concerns Over Nigeria’s Diplomatic Relations.
Five months have passed since President Bola Tinubu recalled all of Nigeria’s ambassadors, and he has yet to appoint their replacements.
On September 2, 2023, President Tinubu ordered the immediate recall of all Nigerian ambassadors and envoys. Nigeria operates 109 diplomatic missions globally, including 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates, as reported by Daily Trust.
Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria has sustained diplomatic relations with numerous countries. Despite occasional reports of inactivity at some Nigerian diplomatic missions, experts argue that countries gain more respect through visible diplomatic presence.
In announcing the diplomats’ recall in September, Presidential Spokesman Ajuri Ngelale stated, “The president aims to ensure that foreign and domestic service delivery meets world-class standards of efficiency and quality.”
This decision followed a thorough review of Nigerian consulates and embassies worldwide.
A former diplomat expressed concerns to Daily Trust about the prolonged delay in appointing new ambassadors, suggesting it might harm Nigeria’s relationships with other countries due to the reluctance to engage with lower diplomatic ranks.
Professor Damilola Olawuyi (SAN), Deputy Vice Chancellor at Afe Babalola University, highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to prioritizing international diplomacy in Nigeria’s development strategy. He noted significant participation in international forums but pointed out the slow start in establishing a clear foreign policy agenda and the diplomatic vacancies as setbacks.
Former Nigerian Ambassador to the United States, Joe Keshi, criticized the simultaneous recall of ambassadors, emphasizing the challenges in finding replacements. He explained the lengthy process involved in appointing ambassadors, including approval from the host country, which could take up to a year.
A Ministry of Foreign Affairs source informed Daily Trust that efforts are underway to select suitable candidates for ambassadorial positions in alignment with the president’s foreign policy goals.
Alkasim Abdulkadir, spokesperson for the Minister of Foreign Affairs, reassured that the appointment of new ambassadors is imminent, describing the selection process as meticulous but essential for representing Nigeria effectively.
Despite concerns over the delay, Abdulkadir assured that embassy operations continue smoothly under the leadership of acting ambassadors and chargés d’affaires, maintaining strong relationships with host countries.
A December 2022 Daily Trust report highlighted issues of corruption, poor funding, and inadequate facilities in Nigerian embassies and consulates, suggesting the need for reforms to improve service delivery and infrastructure.
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
Leave a comment