The delay in appointing Nigeria’s ambassadors has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP). They argue that the Federal Government’s slow response under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu highlights a lack of vision and focus in managing critical national and international responsibilities.
The criticism comes amid growing concerns about Nigeria’s diplomatic representation in foreign countries. Many key ambassadorial positions remain vacant, with only a handful of appointments initiated months after the recall of previous ambassadors. This delay has raised questions about Nigeria’s ability to effectively engage in global diplomacy, attract foreign investments, and safeguard its interests abroad. Stakeholders have noted that ambassadors play pivotal roles in negotiating bilateral agreements and fostering international relations—functions that are currently compromised【41†source】【42†source】.
Critics from the PDP and LP emphasize that this lag in appointments contradicts the urgency expressed by the administration in other areas, such as ministerial appointments. The delay is seen as an impediment to Nigeria’s diplomatic leverage and economic ambitions. They also highlight the inconsistency in advocating for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council while failing to maintain a robust diplomatic presence【41†source】.
The Federal Government has reportedly begun compiling a list of new ambassadors, but the timeline for their confirmation and deployment remains unclear. This situation continues to fuel debate over the administration’s strategic priorities and readiness to address pressing governance challenges【42†source】.
As this issue unfolds, it has become a focal point for opposition criticism, serving as a broader reflection of perceived inefficiencies within Tinubu’s government.
