Real Reason for Delay in Appointment of Ambassadors – Daniel Bwala

Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has attributed the prolonged delay in ambassadorial appointments to financial constraints facing Nigeria’s foreign missions.

Speaking during a programme, Bwala said the administration is fully aware of growing pressure from Nigerians over the matter but stressed that limited funding is the main obstacle. According to him, Tinubu may choose to prioritise appointments to key countries, especially within the G20, given their importance to Nigeria’s economic and diplomatic partnerships.

“The 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, assuring that the matter would soon be resolved.

He noted that while many embassies currently lack substantive ambassadors, they are not without representation, as other officials are in place to engage with host governments. Nonetheless, he admitted that appointing ambassadors is vital for boosting Nigeria’s diplomatic standing and credibility abroad.

Bwala described Tinubu as a leader who listens to concerns and reiterated that the President remains committed to addressing the issue despite the financial hurdles.

In September 2023, Tinubu’s administration ordered the recall of all Nigerian ambassadors worldwide, but two years later, replacements are yet to be announced. Nigeria maintains 109 foreign missions, including 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates. These missions are tasked with promoting foreign policy, protecting Nigerian citizens, advancing trade and investment, and maintaining diplomatic relations.

The delay in new appointments has coincided with worsening welfare conditions for Nigerian diplomats. Earlier this year, reports revealed that some officers had gone unpaid for up to six months, leaving many unable to cover rent, school fees, and other basic obligations.

Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar previously acknowledged the financial challenges facing the missions, while the House of Representatives’ Committee on Foreign Affairs has repeatedly urged the government to prioritise adequate funding.

Nigerians abroad have also raised concerns about poor consular services, including the absence of passport printing facilities in key cities such as New York and Atlanta. The situation has left many stranded without valid travel documents, further compounding frustration among members of the diaspora.