Nigeria’s foreign policy is facing growing concerns due to President Bola Tinubu’s delay in appointing ambassadors, leaving the country’s diplomatic missions without full representation since September 2023.
Following the recall of Nigerian envoys on September 2, 2023, Nigeria’s 109 diplomatic missions—comprising 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and one consulate—have been operating without ambassadors, sparking unease within the political and diplomatic community.
Retired diplomat Ambassador Suleiman Dahiru expressed disappointment at the lack of swift action in appointing new ambassadors, stating that the president should have appointed replacements immediately after recalling the previous envoys.
He explained, “Before recalling ambassadors, the new appointees should have been recommended. These new diplomats should have already been in the pipeline to request agreements on behalf of the new ambassadors, but that has not happened.”
Dahiru also pointed out that many career diplomats are overdue for ambassadorial appointments, and time is running out for some, as they are nearing retirement age. He warned that delays could result in experienced diplomats losing their opportunity for such appointments.
A former diplomat, speaking anonymously, added that the ongoing delay could negatively impact Nigeria’s international relations. Countries may be reluctant to engage with lower-ranking diplomats, such as chargé d’affaires, who lack the authority to handle high-level issues. “A chargé d’affaires is equivalent to a director, and they may face limitations in dealing with foreign ministers or other senior officials from the host country,” the diplomat said.
Joe Keshi, Nigeria’s former Ambassador to the United States, also emphasized the complexities involved in the ambassadorial appointment process. He noted that the nomination, screening, and clearance of new ambassadors can take months or even up to a year before they are officially appointed and accepted by their host countries. Keshi explained, “You can’t just pick someone and say, ‘Go to America.’ You have to send their papers, and only once they are accepted can you make the announcement, which could take six months or longer in some cases.”