Ministry Of Foreign Affairs Warns Public Against Fake Ambassadorial Nominees List
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised the public to disregard a fraudulent list of ambassadorial nominees circulating on social media. In a press release issued on Sunday, the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, firmly denied the existence of such appointments. The ministry emphasized that the authority to appoint ambassadors rests solely with President Bola Tinubu.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform the general public to kindly disregard the fake list of ambassadorial nominees, which is currently in circulation on some social media platforms,” the statement read. “The ministry wishes to state unequivocally that the appointment of ambassadors is the prerogative of Mr. President, and no such appointments have been made in that regard. The purported list should, therefore, be discountenanced.”
Context of Nigeria’s Diplomatic Representation
Nigeria operates 109 missions worldwide, comprising 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates. However, the country has faced a diplomatic vacuum since President Bola Tinubu recalled all career and non-career ambassadors on September 2, 2023.
A statement issued at the time by the Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed the recall, stating:
“Sequel to the inquiries on the letter recalling the Nigerian ambassador to the UK, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has clarified that all career ambassadors and non-career ambassadors have been recalled on the instructions of President Bola Tinubu.”
The recalled diplomats, including 41 non-career ambassadors and 42 career ambassadors appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in July 2020, were instructed to return to Nigeria by October 31, 2023.
Persistent Gap in Diplomatic Appointments
More than a year after these recalls, Nigeria is yet to appoint and deploy new ambassadors. This delay has raised concerns over the country’s diplomatic representation and the management of its international relations. The fake list of nominees has further compounded the situation, prompting the ministry to reassure the public that any official announcements will be duly communicated.
As Nigeria navigates this transitional phase in its diplomatic corps, clarity and prompt action on ambassadorial appointments remain crucial for strengthening the country’s global presence and relations.
