President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has explained why it has taken longer than expected to announce his list of Nigerian ambassadors. According to the President, appointing ambassadors is not an easy task, and he cannot just pick anybody for these important roles.
Speaking in a recent video message, President Tinubu thanked Nigerians for their patience so far and said he still has some ambassadorial positions to fill. However, he emphasized that finding the right candidates who can represent Nigeria well abroad requires careful consideration.
“I couldn’t appoint everybody that I could have appointed. Thank you for your patience till now. I still have some slots for ambassadorial positions that too many people are craving for, but it’s not easy stitching together those names,” he said.
The President also highlighted the priority of his administration: to fix the country’s economy and bring hope to Nigerians before making more ambassadorial appointments.
“First of all, cure the economy, bring hope to the people, as that is what we stop for and that hope is here. Thank you for believing in me,” Tinubu added.
Ambassadors play a critical role in representing Nigeria’s interests abroad. They are responsible for maintaining diplomatic relations, promoting trade, protecting Nigerian citizens overseas, and enhancing Nigeria’s image internationally.
Because these positions require individuals who are skilled, trustworthy, and capable, choosing ambassadors is often a careful and sometimes lengthy process. President Tinubu’s remarks underscore the challenges in balancing political demands and selecting the right people for these key roles.
The last batch of Nigerian ambassadors was appointed during the administration of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari. Since President Tinubu took office on May 29, 2023, many Nigerians and political groups have been urging him to finalize and announce his ambassadorial nominees.
There have been growing pressures from political stakeholders, interest groups, and ordinary Nigerians who expect appointments as part of the administration’s governance agenda. These appointments are often seen as rewards for loyalists and also as important posts to advance Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.
Tinubu’s administration came into power at a time when Nigeria faces several economic challenges, including inflation, unemployment, and dwindling foreign reserves. His message shows that while ambassadorial appointments are important, his government’s immediate priority is to stabilize the economy and restore confidence among Nigerians.
The President’s call for patience suggests that his administration wants to avoid rushing into appointments that may not be well thought out or that could lead to problems later. This approach aims to ensure that only qualified and suitable Nigerians represent the country abroad.
With some ambassadorial slots still open, Nigerians are waiting eagerly for the announcement of new appointments. It is expected that President Tinubu will reveal the names once his team finalizes the selections and ensures that those chosen meet the standards required for diplomatic service.
