Why Tinubu has not appointed Nigeria’s ambassadors – Bwala

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Speaking on a programme, Bwala said the administration is mindful of rising public concerns but stressed that the economic reality has made immediate appointments difficult.

“Mr. President has acknowledged the delays in the ambassadorial list, primarily due to funding constraints affecting our foreign embassies, an issue I am diligently addressing,” Bwala explained.

He hinted that Tinubu may choose to focus on a few key postings, particularly in major economies.

“Despite the surrounding clamour, the President can strategically prioritise appointments to G20 nations, recognising their critical economic partnerships with us,” he added.

Bwala assured that missions without ambassadors are not entirely unmanned.

“But in every embassy where there is no ambassador, there are Nigerian representatives there that can communicate with the foreign governments,” he said.

Still, he admitted the absence of ambassadors was a disadvantage.
“But we also understand the importance of having an ambassador, especially because it will boost the credence and the respect that the country will have towards us,” he said. “Who knows if the President, even in the midst of this cacophony, might just identify the G-20 countries and send ambassadors to these G-20 countries?”

He described Tinubu as a leader who pays attention to concerns raised by citizens.

“This President is a listening President. Whenever you make a good case for something, he will find an answer to it, either it is implemented immediately or he will look into it and implement it or he will tell you why it is being delayed,” Bwala said. “He said it not as if he doesn’t know but it is because we have funding issues, and he promised that he is going to look into it.”

In September 2023, Tinubu ordered the withdrawal of Nigeria’s ambassadors from 109 foreign missions—comprising 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates. Since then, replacements have yet to be announced.

The delay has coincided with worsening conditions in Nigeria’s diplomatic missions. Reports earlier this year revealed that diplomats went unpaid for up to six months, leaving officers unable to cover rent, children’s school fees, or other obligations. In May 2024, Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar admitted the delay was due to financial and economic challenges.

The House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs also urged the government in November 2024 to adequately fund embassies to enable them to function effectively.