By: Joy Musa
Since September 2023, Nigeria has operated over 100 foreign missions without officially appointed ambassadors a situation that has drawn widespread concern and criticism from diplomatic experts, political observers, and citizens alike. Under the stewardship of Hon. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, this prolonged vacuum has raised serious questions about Nigeria’s capacity to manage its international relations effectively.
Loading ...President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to recall 109 ambassadors in 2023 was initially seen as a routine reshuffle to align foreign policy with his administration’s vision. However, nearly two years later, no replacements have been appointed. This absence has left Nigeria without high-level representation in critical global capitals such as Washington, Beijing, Paris, and Pretoria.
Chargés d’affaires and consuls-general have been left to manage these missions, but their limited diplomatic authority and access have significantly weakened Nigeria’s presence on the global stage. As one former ambassador noted, “Charge d’Affaires are level 12 officers. They cannot relate with presidents. They cannot see any officer higher than a director in any diplomatic gathering”.
However, The fallout from this diplomatic void is already evident: Strained bilateral relations: Visa and consular issues with countries like the United States and UAE have escalated. Missed opportunities: Nigeria has been absent from key international negotiations and forums where ambassadors play pivotal roles. Diminished influence: Other nations may begin downgrading their diplomatic ties with Nigeria in response to its lack of engagement.
Even President Tinubu’s own foreign visits and signed agreements risk becoming symbolic gestures without ambassadors to follow through on implementation.
On the other hand, Minister Tuggar has cited funding constraints as the reason for the delay in appointments. Yet, reports show that the government spent over ₦13.7 billion on foreign missions in July 2024 alone without envoys to lead them. Meanwhile, billions have been allocated to non-essential projects, such as luxury renovations and religious subsidies.
This contradiction suggests not a lack of resources, but a lack of prioritization and strategic vision under Tuggar’s Watch.
The absence of ambassadors is not merely a bureaucratic oversight it is a failure of leadership. The Foreign Affairs Ministry, under Hon. Tuggar, has not demonstrated the urgency or competence required to navigate Nigeria’s complex diplomatic landscape. His public handling of sensitive issues, such as the U.S. request regarding Venezuelan deportees, has further exposed the administration’s diplomatic shortcomings.
Expert has said, Nigeria cannot afford to remain voiceless in a world where diplomacy shapes trade, security, and global partnerships. The government must:
Expedite the appointment of qualified ambassadors. Restore credibility and morale within the foreign service.Reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to international engagement.
The longer this silence persists, the louder the message becomes: Nigeria is absent, and the world is moving on without her.
