Ambassadorial nominee and former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, has expressed deep appreciation to members of the Senate following his appearance before the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs on Thursday.
Omokri took to his verified X (formerly Twitter) account shortly after the session to thank the Senate leadership and members of the committee for what he described as a respectful and organised screening process.
His message of gratitude came only hours after a heated exchange between two prominent senators—Adams Oshiomhole and Ali Ndume—during deliberations on his nomination. Despite the disagreement, Omokri maintained a calm tone in his public statement, choosing instead to praise the lawmakers for their professionalism.
In his post, Omokri thanked Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, the chairman of the committee, Senator Sani Bello, and several members who participated in the screening exercise.
He also singled out Senators Adams Oshiomhole and Ali Ndume for mention, acknowledging them even though they had clashed openly during the session.
“From the bottom of my heart, I sincerely thank the Distinguished Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Distinguished Senator Sani Bello, and members of the committee, especially Distinguished Senators Adams Oshiomhole and Ali Ndume,” Omokri wrote.
He added that the Senate remains “a place of honour,” a comment that appeared aimed at maintaining cordial relations with lawmakers as the confirmation process continues.
Omokri’s ambassadorial screening attracted widespread public attention due to the earlier confrontation between Senators Oshiomhole and Ndume.
The two lawmakers engaged in a shouting match over procedural matters relating to the nominee, with Oshiomhole strongly defending Omokri and Ndume insisting that the committee follow strict screening rules.
The exchange created brief tension in the chamber before the committee chairman restored order.
Videos of the incident quickly spread online, sparking debates about legislative conduct, the role of lawmakers in ambassadorial screening, and political rivalry within the Senate.
Despite the row, Omokri remained focused during his appearance and responded to questions concerning Nigeria’s image abroad, economic diplomacy, and his ability to represent the country in a foreign mission.
Reno Omokri, who served as a special assistant to former President Goodluck Jonathan, is known for his outspoken commentary on national issues, particularly during the Buhari administration.
His nomination has drawn mixed reactions from Nigerians, with some praising his advocacy for national unity abroad and others questioning whether his strong political views align with the calm diplomacy expected of an ambassador.
In recent years, Omokri has been involved in campaigns aimed at defending Nigeria’s reputation in international media, especially during negative coverage involving security and economic issues.
Supporters argue that his communication skills, media experience, and global connections make him suitable for the diplomatic role.
Ambassadorial appointments are crucial to Nigeria’s foreign relations, as they determine who represents the country in strategic missions around the world.
According to the Constitution, the President nominates ambassadors, while the Senate confirms them after thorough screening by its Committee on Foreign Affairs.
During screening sessions, nominees are assessed on their understanding of foreign policy, knowledge of the host country they may be assigned to, their background, and their ability to project a positive image of Nigeria.
Omokri’s appearance before the committee is part of this compulsory process. The Senate will later vote to confirm or reject his nomination once the committee submits its final report.
Although the confrontation between Oshiomhole and Ndume dominated public discussion, Omokri’s reaction remained diplomatic.
His message of gratitude appeared aimed at lowering tension and showing respect for all lawmakers involved in the process.
“The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is indeed a place of honour,” he wrote, signalling his confidence in the institution regardless of internal disagreements.
Following the screening hearing, the committee will review Omokri’s performance alongside those of other ambassadorial nominees.
It will then compile its recommendations and submit them to the full Senate for deliberation and final approval.
If confirmed, Omokri will join Nigeria’s diplomatic corps at a time when the country is working to improve its international reputation, attract foreign investment, and strengthen ties with partner nations.
The events surrounding Omokri’s screening highlight the dynamic and sometimes tense nature of Nigeria’s democratic processes.
Lawmakers often bring strong views to screening exercises, especially when nominations involve individuals with high public profiles or political histories.
While disagreements are not unusual in legislative proceedings, the eventual focus remains on carrying out constitutional duties, ensuring that nominees meet the required standards, and upholding the integrity of public office.
Omokri’s appreciation message suggests he is prepared to work with all lawmakers, regardless of factions or disagreements, as he awaits the Senate’s final decision.
