The Special Adviser on Public Communication and Orientation to President Bola Tinubu, Sunday Dare, has addressed mounting concerns over the delay in appointing ambassadors to Nigeria’s 109 missions, 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates globally.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that Speaking in an interview with Premium Times, Dare clarified that the President is taking a deliberate and calculated approach to ensure the right individuals are chosen for these critical roles.
EDITOR’S PICKS
“You must appreciate the fact that when you have a mission or an embassy, it is a structure. What you have at the top is the ambassador, who can be either a political appointee or a career diplomat. But they don’t operate in isolation,” Dare explained.
He noted that the absence of ambassadors has not halted diplomatic activities in Nigeria’s foreign missions. “They have consul generals and a number of diplomats and foreign affairs staffers who handle the day-to-day work. So, when ambassadors are removed, the essential work of diplomacy continues. It’s just the removal of one person,” he said.
Dare acknowledged, however, that having ambassadors in place provides clearer direction and focus. He assured Nigerians that the appointments would happen soon, emphasizing that Tinubu’s deliberate approach stems from his understanding of the ambassadors’ pivotal role in driving foreign direct investment (FDI) and integrating Nigeria into the global economy.
“The President has been deliberate because he understands that ambassadors will play a key role in his plan to bring FDI into our country. They will also be crucial in ensuring that Nigeria is plugged into the global economy at the right points,” he said.
He added, “The President is ensuring that those appointed have the necessary credentials, whether they are career diplomats or political appointees. That is why it has taken time. But I am confident we will have ambassadors very soon, likely before the end of the year.”
Here’s the video of the week:
By abiodun KOMOLAFE I recently had the honour of visiting Ekiti State, where I embarked…
Ekohotblog reports that the Epe Club celebrated its golden jubilee on Saturday, December 21, 2024,…
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has announced that petrol will be sold…