More than a year after Nigeria recalled all its ambassadors without naming replacements, the federal government appears confident to break the silence, with reports indicating that high-profile political figures are being vetted for ambassadorial appointments.
Among the prominent names reportedly on the shortlist are former senator Shehu Sani, ex-presidential aide Reno Omokri, and former aviation minister Femi Fani-Kayode. Also listed are Okezie Ikpeazu and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, former Abia and Enugu governors, as well as Fola Adeola, Co-Founder of GTCO Group and Femi Pedro, former Lagos deputy governor.
According to a report by Vanguard, the nominees are currently undergoing security screening by the Department of State Services (DSS), a crucial step before any formal ambassadorial appointments in Nigeria is confirmed.
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“Yes, I have been nominated, but the process is still ongoing,” one of the appointees revealed under the condition of anonymity.
A presidency official, also speaking anonymously, confirmed the development, stating that the delay in unveiling the list was due to the rigorous vetting process.
“When those appointed have cleared security checks, we will release the list. Only those who have been cleared are announced,” the official said, adding that the official list may be released before the end of the month.
The move comes amid growing criticism over Nigeria’s absence of officially designated envoys since last year, a vacuum that has left the country’s diplomatic presence in limbo.
In 2023, the Tinubu-led administration recalled all serving ambassadors, both career and non-career, without naming immediate replacements, a move that sparked speculation and concern among foreign policy observers.
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Bayo Onanuga, the presidential spokesperson, had earlier acknowledged that the nomination process involved “thorough scrutiny,” adding that the list would eventually be forwarded to the National Assembly for confirmation.
The upcoming ambassadorial appointments are expected to not only restore Nigeria’s diplomatic representation abroad but also reveal the administration’s broader strategy for managing international relations through a blend of political loyalty and technocratic expertise.
As the vetting process nears conclusion, all eyes remain on the presidency for the final list – one that may reshape not only ambassadorial appointments in Nigeria, but also the face of The country’s foreign policy in the Tinubu era.
