By Our Correspondent
National News – The Federal Government has confirmed that over 25 of the 65 ambassador-designates appointed by President Bola Tinubu have received agrément from host countries, clearing the first major hurdle for their deployment.
The development marks a key step in restoring Nigeria’s diplomatic presence abroad after months of vacancy in several missions.
Speaking in Abuja on Friday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa explained that the approvals from foreign governments follow due diligence on nominees and confirm acceptance for diplomatic postings.
He said Nigeria continues to receive new agrément daily, with more countries expected to clear nominees ahead of the induction programme.
He noted the process ensures qualified envoys are posted where they are formally accepted, strengthening international relations and bilateral cooperation.
The ministry has concluded arrangements for a three-day induction programme scheduled for April 27 to 29, 2026, where ambassador-designates and their spouses will be trained on diplomatic conduct, host country expectations, and how to represent Nigeria effectively abroad.
Deployment is expected to begin immediately after the exercise, especially for those already cleared by receiving nations.
Nigeria has operated several missions without substantive ambassadors since 2023, relying on chargés d’affaires due to delayed appointments.
The recent screening of 65 nominees by the National Assembly in late 2025 paved the way for gradual restoration of full diplomatic leadership across over seventy missions worldwide, ensuring no nominee is left without posting even if rejected.
Ebienfa also warned against the illegal use of diplomatic titles, stressing that only the Federal Government has the authority to confer ambassadorial status.
He said individuals or groups falsely presenting themselves as ambassadors or issuing fake diplomatic credentials will face prosecution as the government moves to protect Nigeria’s international reputation.
