President Bola Tinubu’s newly released list of 32 ambassadorial nominees—15 career and 17 non-career—has stirred intense controversy nationwide, dashing expectations after a two-year vacuum in Nigeria’s foreign missions.
Rather than relief, many Nigerians expressed disappointment over what they described as weak, politically-motivated choices lacking the merit and diplomatic experience needed for effective global representation.
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) slammed the list as “unfortunate and disgraceful,” with its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, accusing Tinubu of rewarding “displaced politicians, sycophants, and ethically challenged individuals.”
He specifically faulted the inclusion of Femi Fani-Kayode and Reno Omokri, alleging they were compensated for political loyalty and attacks on opposition figures.
Former PDP Zonal Publicity Secretary, Ayo Fadaka, similarly questioned the integrity and competence of the nominees.
Concerns over regional imbalance also emerged, with the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) describing the distribution as skewed in favour of the South-West, which received 11 slots—more than any other zone.
CNG Coordinator, Jamilu Charanchi, said the disparity “ridicules the federal character principle” and reinforces fears of political patronage.
ADC also criticised the inclusion of former INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, warning that his appointment barely two years after the disputed 2023 elections further damages electoral credibility.
While analysts and retired diplomats stressed the urgent need for funding Nigeria’s struggling foreign missions—many of which face unpaid allowances and mounting debts—rights advocates questioned whether politically influenced nominees could effectively advance Nigeria’s global interests.
They insisted the Senate must thoroughly scrutinise each nominee to avoid embarrassing international representation.
However, not all reactions were negative. Former Senate Leader, Teslim Folarin, praised the list, celebrating the nomination of former Oyo First Lady, Florence Ajimobi, as “well-deserved.”
The Security Committee of Yoruba Leaders of Thought also applauded the choice of former NIA Director-General Ayo Oke, describing him as fit for the role.