Nigeria Warns Against Unauthorized Use of Diplomatic Titles

The Nigerian federal government has issued a stern warning against the unauthorised use of diplomatic titles, particularly the designation of “Ambassador,” describing the practice as fraudulent and a violation of national law.

In a statement released last Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “grave concern” over the growing trend of individuals illegally assuming diplomatic titles without official government appointment or accreditation. The ministry characterised these actions as the work of “unscrupulous individuals” seeking to mislead the public.

According to the ministry, the improper use of diplomatic titles constitutes a criminal offence under Nigerian law. This includes the use of counterfeit diplomatic passports, identity cards, and vehicle plates displaying national symbols. The statement emphasised that such criminal acts by “unpatriotic elements” have become increasingly worrisome in recent times.

The ministry highlighted that some individuals who incorrectly use these titles do so in official correspondence and even in engagements with foreign embassies in Nigeria, causing “serious embarrassment to the federal government.” It clarified that only the President has the authority to appoint and accredit ambassadors, and no individual, organisation, or non-governmental entity is permitted to confer diplomatic titles under any circumstances.

Furthermore, the ministry stressed that ambassadorial titles cannot be legitimately obtained through payment, donations, or membership in organisations. While acknowledging the existence of “brand ambassadors” in the private sector, it explained that such roles are purely promotional and do not carry any legal or diplomatic recognition.

The government has warned that anyone found impersonating diplomats or engaging in the illegal conferment of such titles will face prosecution. The ministry added that relevant agencies, including security bodies and regulatory authorities, are already collaborating to clamp down on offenders.

The statement concluded by emphasising that the government will not tolerate actions that misrepresent the country or bring it into disrepute, underscoring the seriousness with which it views this issue and its commitment to protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s diplomatic corps.