Tinubu Appoints Bianca Ojukwu Foreign Affairs Minister

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Nigeria’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs following the resignation of Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, in a move aimed at strengthening the country’s diplomatic engagement and foreign policy direction.

The appointment was announced in Abuja through a statement issued by the Presidency, which said the decision forms part of ongoing efforts to reposition Nigeria’s foreign policy architecture for greater efficiency, strategic partnerships and stronger global presence.

Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who previously served as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, now assumes leadership of the ministry at a time Nigeria is seeking to expand trade ties, attract foreign investment and reinforce its influence in Africa and beyond.

Her elevation follows the resignation of Tuggar, who stepped down from office to pursue political ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections, according to the Presidency.

In the same development, President Tinubu nominated Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, subject to confirmation by the Senate. Enikanolaiye previously served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.

Before his nomination, Enikanolaiye built a lengthy diplomatic career spanning more than three decades, with postings in Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London and New Delhi. He also served as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said the appointments are expected to inject fresh energy into Nigeria’s diplomatic service and align foreign policy with the administration’s economic priorities.

Tinubu urged the new appointees to promote Nigeria’s national interest, advance economic diplomacy, support regional peace and safeguard the welfare of Nigerians at home and abroad.

Observers say Bianca’s appointment places an experienced diplomat and former ambassador at the centre of Nigeria’s international outreach at a period marked by global economic uncertainty and shifting geopolitical alliances.

She previously served as Nigeria’s ambassador to Ghana and Spain, while also representing the country at the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, experience analysts say could prove valuable in her new role.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry is expected to focus on diaspora welfare, trade promotion, regional security cooperation and improving bilateral ties with strategic partners.

Political analysts also view the reshuffle as part of broader adjustments within Tinubu’s cabinet as preparations gradually build toward the 2027 elections.

With Senate action pending on the minister of state nominee, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu is expected to immediately steer Nigeria’s diplomatic agenda in one of the administration’s most strategic portfolios.