President Bola Tinubu has not yet finalized the list of ambassadors for Nigeria's diplomatic missions, despite receiving some nominee names months ago.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs claims to have submitted the names for consideration, but Tinubu's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, clarified that the nominations are undergoing a thorough process and dismissed circulating lists as fake news.
The ambassadorial list, consisting of career and political appointees, must pass through various stages before release. Though specifics on the nominees remain unclear, sources suggest an inclination towards career diplomats and individuals with notable professional backgrounds. Names like Fola Adeola, Olufemi Pedro, and Tasiu Maigari are rumored to be among those considered.
Tinubu's administration aims to deploy technocrats and accomplished professionals as envoys to bolster Nigeria's international presence and attract investments. A committee was reportedly formed to recommend candidates for both career and political ambassadorial positions, considering factors like diplomatic delicacies and strategic interests.
President Tinubu previously recalled all ambassadors, both career and non-career, stationed globally, instructing them to return by October 31, 2023. This move affected 41 non-career and 42 career ambassadors appointed during Former President Muhammadu Buhari's tenure in July 2020.
