The Traffic

18 Months Without Ambassadors, FG Finally Moves to Fill Key Posts

By Achimi Muktar

After nearly two years of diplomatic limbo, the Nigerian government has finally begun the vetting process for new ambassadorial appointments, raising hopes that President Bola Tinubu will soon name replacements for the envoys he recalled in September 2023.

According to sources cited by Reuters, intelligence agencies are conducting extensive background checks on potential candidates, with findings being shared across key government institutions, including the presidency and legislature. This development signals that the long-awaited appointments could be announced "very soon."

18 Months Without Ambassadors—What Went Wrong?

President Tinubu’s decision to recall all career and non-career ambassadors just six months into his tenure left a major gap in Nigeria’s diplomatic representation. While he swiftly appointed consuls-general and chargés d’affaires to manage affairs in key foreign missions, full-fledged ambassadors—who play a crucial role in international relations—have remained absent.

The prolonged delay sparked concern among foreign diplomats, business stakeholders, and Nigerian expatriates who rely on embassies for consular services. Meanwhile, Tinubu has continued to receive letters of credence from foreign ambassadors posted to Nigeria, further highlighting the imbalance in diplomatic exchanges.

Why the Delay?

The official explanation? Money.

Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar previously blamed the delay on budget constraints, stating that financial limitations had stalled the appointment process. However, a government source now confirms that the issue “is being resolved,” paving the way for official announcements.

The federal government has allocated N302.4 billion for foreign missions in its 2025 budget, a sign that resources may finally be available to fill these critical positions.

What’s Next?

With the vetting process underway, all eyes are now on the presidency to release the long-awaited list of new ambassadors. The appointments will be crucial for restoring Nigeria’s diplomatic presence globally, strengthening foreign relations, and improving consular services for Nigerians abroad.

Will the government get it right this time? Or will political maneuvering slow things down again? The world is watching.