President Bola Tinubu has submitted a list of three ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for confirmation, marking a significant step in addressing the country’s diplomatic representation. The nominees, announced by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a plenary session, are Kayode Are from Ogun State, Aminu Dalhatu from Jigawa State, and Ayodele Oke.

According to Akpabio, the submission is in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended. The Senate President noted that the list currently contains three names, with the possibility of additional nominees in the future. He has tasked the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs to report back within one week.

This development comes after a notable delay in appointing ambassadors, which has drawn criticism. Since taking office in 2023, President Tinubu has not appointed any ambassadors, prompting a “comprehensive diplomatic review” that led to the recall of all ambassadors from Nigeria’s 109 foreign missions. As a result, most missions have been led by chargés d’affaires or senior consular officers with limited authority.

The delay in appointing ambassadors has been attributed to the complexity of balancing political and professional interests. President Tinubu has acknowledged the challenges involved, stating that it is not easy to make these appointments. The President has also expressed gratitude for the patience of those awaiting appointments, indicating that there are still available slots for ambassadorial positions.

The appointment of ambassadors is crucial in addressing diplomatic tensions, including Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern by the US. The lack of ambassadors has contributed to limited representation in formal negotiations, highlighting the need for swift confirmation of the nominees. With the submission of the list, the Senate is expected to facilitate the confirmation process, enabling the nominees to assume their roles and strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic presence.