The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that the names of new ambassadors will be announced soon, despite the ongoing delay in their appointments.
Speaking at a ministerial briefing, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, emphasized that the absence of appointed envoys has not disrupted Nigeria’s foreign policy implementation or the operation of its embassies abroad.
Foreign Missions Operating Smoothly
Tuggar addressed concerns that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‘s decision to recall all serving ambassadors in October 2023—without immediate replacements—might have hindered diplomatic efforts. He dismissed these fears, asserting that Nigeria’s global positioning remains strong.
He highlighted the ministry’s achievements, including:
- Strengthening Nigeria’s global reputation
- Enhancing the Nigerian passport’s credibility
- Boosting economic diplomacy
- Creating better opportunities for Nigerian businesses abroad
“Imagine a Nigeria where every citizen walks into an embassy, airport, or business negotiation with confidence, not fear. A Nigeria whose passport opens doors, whose businesses lead the global market, and whose voice is respected. That Nigeria is no longer a dream—the foundation has been laid by President Tinubu’s 4D Foreign Policy Doctrine,” Tuggar stated.
Government Investigating Alleged USAID Links to Boko Haram
Tuggar also revealed that the Nigerian government is investigating claims that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is backing Boko Haram. However, he clarified that these allegations remain unverified.
Despite security concerns, he maintained that Boko Haram has been significantly weakened, and the government is focused on rehabilitating and reintegrating affected individuals.
10,000 New Agro Rangers to Protect Farmers
In a related development, Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the recruitment of 10,000 additional agro rangers to strengthen security for farmers and agricultural communities.
He noted that 10,000 officers from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have already been trained as agro rangers, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving internal security.
“We are making serious progress. More will still be done because we have a President who understands that his first responsibility is the protection of lives and property,” Tunji-Ojo said.
Media Commended for Coverage
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, commended the media for their dedicated coverage of the ministerial scorecard session.