Tinubu Appoints Ambassadors After Public Pressure, Defends Controversial Nominees
Chukwu Obinna 
President Bola Tinubu
ABUJA, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu appoints new ambassadors to Nigeria’s diplomatic missions following sustained public pressure over prolonged vacancies, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, says.
Speaking at the ministry’s year-end briefing in Abuja on Monday, Idris confirms that the president’s action responds to widespread calls for Nigeria to restore full diplomatic representation abroad.
“Before now, there have been cries and agitations for ambassadors to be deployed,” Idris says. “President Bola Tinubu has responded to those demands.”
The announcement, however, triggers public debate, particularly over the inclusion of former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode and ex-presidential aide Reno Omokri among the nominees. Critics question the suitability of some appointments, while supporters argue that experience and political loyalty justify the selections.
Idris defends the nominations, stressing that filling diplomatic gaps is critical to Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives and international image. “Our ambassadors will assume their posts in 2026, following clearance and confirmation by the National Assembly,” he says.
He adds that the appointments will enhance Nigeria’s bilateral relations and strategic engagement globally. “This strengthens our international visibility and deepens Nigeria’s diplomatic footprint,” the minister states.
Nigeria has operated without substantive ambassadors in several countries for months, a situation analysts say weakens diplomatic coordination and consular services.
The government insists the new appointments mark a turning point in repositioning Nigeria’s foreign relations architecture amid evolving global economic and security challenges.
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