The Federal Government has reportedly commenced the screening process for potential candidates to fill ambassadorial roles across Nigeria’s 109 diplomatic missions worldwide, which include 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates.
Since recalling over 83 ambassadors in September 2023, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has operated Nigeria’s foreign policy agenda centered on Democracy, Development, Demography, and the Diaspora without official representatives in these missions. The recall followed a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s foreign policy direction.
According to Punch, sources within the presidency and foreign service have revealed that prominent figures such as former Minister of Aviation Femi Fani-Kayode, and former Lagos State Deputy Governor Femi Pedro, are among those nominated for diplomatic appointments.
The vetting process, however, is not being centrally conducted. Instead, nominees are being directed to report to their nearest Department of State Services (DSS) offices to undergo background checks. The DSS is verifying nominees’ personal histories, including educational backgrounds, career appointments, and other relevant details.
A top presidency official confirmed that several nominees have already been contacted and are currently undergoing security screening. “Only those who pass the DSS checks will be shortlisted. We are expecting to release the final list before the end of April,” the source disclosed.
Another official added, “Each nominee is being screened based on their location. They have been asked to submit detailed information about their education, professional background, and public service history.”
While the full list of nominees remains confidential, insiders confirmed that some high-profile and potentially controversial figures are under consideration. Names such as Fola Adeola, founder of Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, and others have reportedly been submitted.
“The names are tightly guarded at the moment because not everyone being screened will be appointed. But the process is ongoing and moving faster now,” a senior official explained.
Government insiders say the rigorous vetting is a precautionary measure to prevent reputational damage to the country. “We want to ensure that anyone representing Nigeria abroad does not have unresolved security or legal issues that could affect the nation’s diplomatic image,” a presidency source noted.
As the process continues, Nigerians and foreign partners alike await the formal announcement of new ambassadors, which will reestablish Nigeria’s diplomatic presence and strengthen its global engagements.
