Nigeria is poised to appoint new ambassadors after an 18-month vacancy. The government is reviewing candidates for over 100 missions, with budget constraints previously delaying appointments. Recent communications indicate that new appointees will be announced soon, prioritizing foreign policy as the country addresses significant economic challenges.
Nigeria’s government is in the process of evaluating candidates to fill over 100 diplomatic missions, with expected appointments imminent. This initiative follows President Bola Tinubu’s recall of all ambassadors 18 months ago. The absence of ambassadors has persisted since September 2023, raising concerns regarding diplomatic representation, particularly as Nigeria remains a crucial ally in combating Islamist terrorism in West Africa.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs has attributed delays in appointing new diplomats to budgetary constraints. However, a government insider indicated that these issues are being addressed, suggesting that appointments will be announced soon. Security services are currently conducting thorough background checks on prospective appointees before sharing their findings with relevant government bodies.
Since President Tinubu took office in May 2023, there has been a predominant focus on addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges, which has relegated foreign policy matters. A former ambassador noted that the issue of missing ambassadors has surfaced in discussions between Tinubu and various foreign leaders, with reassurances given that new appointments will occur shortly. The government’s budget allocates 302.4 billion naira ($198.30 million) for the operations of its foreign missions in 2023.
In summary, Nigeria’s government is on the verge of appointing new ambassadors, following a significant gap in diplomatic representation since President Bola Tinubu’s recall of all ambassadors 18 months prior. Despite initial financial constraints hindering appointments, steps have been taken to resolve these issues promptly, underscoring the importance of effective diplomatic relations amidst pressing security and economic challenges in the region.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
