Nigeria’s government is set to appoint new ambassadors to its over 100 diplomatic missions worldwide, 18 months after President Bola Tinubu recalled all ambassadors in September 2023.
The appointments are expected to be announced “very soon,” according to sources familiar with the matter.
The country has been operating without ambassadors since the recall, with the minister of foreign affairs citing a lack of funds as the reason for the delay.
However, a government source has revealed that the issue is being resolved, paving the way for the appointment of new diplomats.
Nigeria’s security services are currently conducting background checks on potential appointees, and the findings are being shared with relevant agencies within the presidency and legislature.
The government has budgeted 302.4 billion naira ($198.30 million) to run its foreign missions this year.
The appointment of new ambassadors is seen as a significant step in boosting Nigeria’s diplomatic presence worldwide, particularly after a lengthy period of absence.
The move is also expected to strengthen the country’s relationships with foreign leaders and international organizations.
