Nigeria is currently without formal representation in 109 diplomatic missions worldwide due to the delay in appointing new ambassadors. In September 2023, President Bola Tinubu recalled 83 ambassadors, but 13 months later, no replacements have been appointed. This has sparked concerns over Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic engagements abroad.
The delay has been attributed to funding challenges, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson stating that the deployment of ambassadors depends on allocations in a supplementary budget. However, a top official within the ministry expressed frustration over the continued delay, stating that “there is silence on the matter. Nobody knows what is going on.”
Experts have emphasized the importance of ambassadors in both diplomatic and economic matters. Economist Shadrach Israel noted that the absence of ambassadors can affect economic gains, particularly in trade negotiations. Retired Nigerian Ambassador Ogbole Amedu-Ode warned that the lack of principal envoys can hinder high-level diplomatic engagement and undermine Nigeria’s influence abroad.
The situation has raised concerns about Nigeria’s ability to effectively engage with the international community and promote its interests abroad.
