Nigeria Secures Approval for Ambassadors from Ten Nations

The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, announced that Nigeria has secured approval from ten countries for its ambassadorial nominees. This development marks a significant step in addressing the long-standing vacancies in Nigeria's diplomatic missions.

The countries that granted approval include the United Kingdom, France, the United States, Ireland, Qatar, the Republic of Benin, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Senegal, and Sierra Leone. The process of securing agreements with host nations is ongoing, and the date for the induction ceremony will be announced once final confirmations are received from President Bola Tinubu.

Since assuming office in May 2023, President Tinubu has faced criticism for the delay in appointing new ambassadors, which has left many diplomatic posts vacant and has raised concerns about Nigeria's diplomatic influence, particularly in bilateral engagements with strategic countries. A list of 65 ambassadorial nominees is expected to be presented to the National Assembly by late 2025, but nominees must first receive approval from host countries.