The Nigerian government has begun deploying consular officers to foreign missions, signaling a step toward addressing the ongoing diplomatic gap caused by the absence of appointed ambassadors. This development comes 14 months after 83 ambassadors, both career and non-career, were recalled in September 2023, shortly after President Bola Tinubu assumed office.
The decision to recall the ambassadors was reportedly part of a strategic reassessment of Nigeria’s foreign policy. However, since then, no formal replacements have been announced, leaving key diplomatic positions unfilled. This delay has drawn criticism from diplomats and opposition parties, who view it as a reflection of governmental inefficiency and neglect of international relations.
In the interim, the government has appointed consuls-general and chargés d’affaires to manage routine operations in embassies. Yet, experts argue these temporary measures lack the diplomatic authority to engage in high-level discussions or negotiations with foreign heads of state. A senior Ministry of Foreign Affairs official, speaking anonymously to PUNCH, confirmed that consular officers are currently being deployed to various embassies, including those in Spain, Malaysia, and Brazil. Some officers have already assumed their roles, while others are set to report later this month.
Critics, including retired ambassadors and opposition figures, warn that the prolonged absence of ambassadors could harm Nigeria’s global standing and deter potential foreign investments. A former Nigerian ambassador, Ogbole Amedu-Ode, expressed concern over the situation, stating that “diplomatic missions without substantive heads for over a year leave much to be desired.”
Budget constraints have been cited as a key reason for the delay. In May 2024, Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar acknowledged the financial challenges, while a former ministry spokesperson suggested that ambassadorial funding might be included in a supplementary budget.
Opposition parties, including the People’s Democratic Party and Labour Party, have criticized the Tinubu administration’s handling of foreign affairs. Labour Party spokesperson Obiora Ifoh noted that Nigeria’s foreign policy lacks clear direction, adding, “It takes an ambassador to present a country’s position effectively.” PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor called the situation “unfortunate” and alleged the President is disconnected from the realities of governance.
