A Nigerian activist, Elder Karofi, has called for the removal of Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar as Minister of Foreign Affairs, citing concerns over the country’s declining global reputation. In an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, Karofi accused Tuggar of presiding over a “steady collapse” of Nigeria’s foreign policy, leading to a weakening of the nation’s voice on the international stage.

Karofi stated that the minister’s “diplomatic inertia, weak leadership, and failure to defend Nigeria’s image” have resulted in the erosion of the country’s credibility abroad. He claimed that Nigeria’s interests are being neglected, and its image is being maligned due to the minister’s inability to effectively perform his duties. The activist also criticized Tuggar for not countering international propaganda that brands Nigeria as a country persecuting Christians or advancing a “genocide agenda.”

According to Karofi, the minister’s silence has emboldened foreign actors to smear Nigeria’s image unchecked, which he described as “gross negligence.” The activist painted a picture of a ministry trapped in bureaucratic lethargy, with underfunded embassies, demoralized staff, and a lack of strategic direction. He listed several failures attributed to Tuggar’s tenure, including ineffective embassies, poor communication, and weak coordination among ministries.

Karofi urged President Tinubu to remove Tuggar immediately and replace him with a “competent, energetic, and visionary diplomat” who can restore Nigeria’s global influence. He emphasized that the Foreign Affairs portfolio is critical to the country’s external image and economic prospects, stating that “foreign affairs is the face of Nigeria to the world.” The activist’s call for Tuggar’s removal is driven by his concern that Nigeria’s foreign image is “sinking fast” under the current minister.

The development comes as Nigeria continues to navigate complex global relationships and security challenges. The country’s foreign policy has faced criticism in recent times, with some arguing that it lacks a clear direction. The call for Tuggar’s removal highlights the need for effective leadership in Nigeria’s foreign affairs ministry, particularly at a time when the country seeks to strengthen its global partnerships and address regional instability.