President Bola Tinubu has forwarded 65 ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for confirmation, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to global peace and economic cooperation as 21 newly accredited foreign envoys presented their Letters of Credence at the State House, Abuja.
The list comprises 34 career diplomats and 31 non-career nominees, including former Chief of Naval Staff Ibok-Ete Ibas; former Minister of Interior Abdulrahman Dambazau; former presidential aide Ita Enang; and former Imo First Lady, Chioma Ohakim.
The nominations have stirred controversy, especially with the inclusion of former INEC Chairman Mahmud Yakubu.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the move, describing it as “morally indefensible” and warning that appointing the umpire of one of Nigeria’s most disputed elections could undermine public trust and signal dangerous incentives for future electoral conduct.
Civil society coalition, Rescue Movement for New Nigeria (RMNN), also rejected the list, alleging that it was driven by political compensation rather than merit.
The group urged the Senate to scrutinise and reject nominees with questionable reputations, warning that poorly selected envoys could damage Nigeria’s international image and further weaken governance and security.
During the credential-presentation ceremony, Tinubu welcomed the foreign envoys, reiterating his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, deepening global partnerships and creating an enabling environment for investment.
Speaking on behalf of the diplomats, Japan’s Ambassador, Suzuki Hideo, described the event as historic and underscored Nigeria’s pivotal role in ECOWAS and African affairs.
At a separate event marking his 60th birthday and retirement, outgoing Director of Reforms at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Akinremi Bolaji, highlighted the dangers and sacrifices of diplomatic service, noting that Nigerian diplomats often “walk into fires weapons cannot extinguish.”
He urged greater recognition and support for diplomats who uphold Nigeria’s image globally.