Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu, has urged the National Assembly to thoroughly scrutinize the latest ambassadorial nominees. In an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Sunday Politics’, Baba-Ahmed emphasized the importance of rigorous scrutiny, particularly with regards to the nominees’ background, integrity, and records.

The former adviser’s comments come after President Tinubu nominated 32 individuals as ambassadors, including former governors, politicians, and public figures. The list, which was released recently, includes notable names such as Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Mahmood Yakubu, Femi Fani-Kayode, and Reno Omokri.

Baba-Ahmed cautioned that the National Assembly should prioritize personal integrity above political, regional, or ethnic considerations when evaluating the nominees. He also expressed concern over the delayed release of the ambassadorial list, stating that it should have been done much earlier. The former adviser resigned from his position in April 2025 due to personal reasons and dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of national issues.

The nominated ambassadors will undergo a vetting process by the National Assembly before their appointments are confirmed. The process is expected to involve a thorough examination of their qualifications, experience, and suitability for the roles. The National Assembly’s scrutiny of the nominees is crucial in ensuring that the country is represented by individuals with the highest standards of integrity and competence.

The release of the ambassadorial list has sparked interest and debate, with many Nigerians awaiting the outcome of the vetting process. The National Assembly’s decision will have significant implications for the country’s diplomatic relations and international representation. As the process unfolds, it is expected that the National Assembly will prioritize the nation’s interests and ensure that the nominated ambassadors meet the required standards.