Nigeria to deploy 25 ambassadors after host countries’ approval

The Federal Government says it will soon commence the deployment of its ambassadors to foreign missions following the receipt of more than 25 diplomatic agreements from host countries. Briefing journalists on current developments in the ministry on Friday, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, disclosed that the government had made […]

The Federal Government says it will soon commence the deployment of its ambassadors to foreign missions following the receipt of more than 25 diplomatic agreements from host countries.

Briefing journalists on current developments in the ministry on Friday, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, disclosed that the government had made significant progress in the accreditation process required before envoys are posted abroad.

“We have received more than 25 agreements from countries where ambassador-designates have been sent, and plans have been concluded for a three-day induction programme from the 27th to the 29th of this month,” Ebienfa said, adding that deployment would begin immediately after the exercise.

He explained that the agreements represent formal consent from receiving countries after conducting due diligence on Nigeria’s nominees.

• Tinubu to critics: We’ll give eyeglasses to those who can’t see our achievements
• PCN Seals 598 Pharmacies, Medicine Shops in Kaduna

“Once the agreement is granted, the ministry proceeds with induction, where ambassadors and, where applicable, their spouses are exposed to the principles of diplomacy, conduct in host countries, and the expectations of the President,” he said.

Ebienfa added that following the induction, ambassadors who have secured approval would proceed to their respective postings, although some missions may still await final clearances.

Meanwhile, the ministry has raised concerns over the growing trend of individuals falsely parading themselves as ambassadors, describing it as a serious threat to Nigeria’s diplomatic integrity.

“The ministry has observed with concern the increasing activities of unscrupulous individuals and groups who illegally assume diplomatic titles and fraudulently confer such on unsuspecting members of the public,” Ebienfa stated.

He warned that only the President of Nigeria has the constitutional authority to appoint and accredit ambassadors, stressing that any other claim to such titles constitutes impersonation.