Tinubu Appoints Non-Career Ambassadors For US, UK, France

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of non-career diplomats as Nigeria’s ambassadors to the United States, United Kingdom, and France, a move that has attracted both praise and criticism from political observers and stakeholders in the country’s foreign service.

According to sources within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the appointments are part of the administration’s broader strategy to place trusted individuals in key foreign missions, emphasizing political experience and alignment with government policies over traditional diplomatic career pathways.

The appointed envoys, who are largely political appointees rather than career foreign service officers, are expected to represent Nigeria’s interests abroad, including trade promotion, cultural diplomacy, and fostering bilateral relations with host countries.

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Critics of the appointments argue that such postings should ideally be reserved for seasoned career diplomats who have extensive experience in international relations and diplomacy. Supporters, however, contend that placing politically aligned envoys in strategic countries can strengthen government policies and advance Nigeria’s global agenda.

This announcement comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking to strengthen its international partnerships, attract foreign investment, and address challenges such as security collaboration, economic cooperation, and diplomatic influence in key global capitals.

Observers also note that the move could have implications for the country’s foreign policy execution, given the crucial roles of the United States, United Kingdom, and France in global affairs.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to release formal confirmation and details of the appointed ambassadors in the coming days.