President Bola Tinubu is set to finalize the appointment of ambassadors to Nigeria’s foreign missions worldwide, following a two-year delay.
The development comes amid growing diplomatic tensions, particularly with the United States, after former President Donald Trump’s comments threatening military action over alleged killings of Christians in Nigeria.
According to sources, Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar is scheduled to meet with Tinubu to discuss finalizing the ambassadorial list.
The delay has left most missions headed by chargés d’affaires with limited authority, affecting Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements globally.
A senior official explained that the list of nominees had been cleaned up to ensure that only eligible and available individuals are appointed, noting that some nominees had passed away, taken new appointments, or opted out due to ill health.
The Senate had already screened the nominees, and the list has been returned to the President for final approval.
The appointment of ambassadors is seen as crucial in restoring Nigeria’s diplomatic presence and influence globally, particularly in light of the recent diplomatic tensions with the US.
The Presidency has confirmed that an official statement will be released once the appointments are finalized.
