Nigeria Strengthens Diplomatic Ties with Key Ambassador Postings
In a significant diplomatic development, Nigeria has taken a major step forward by appointing new ambassadors to crucial global capitals. President Bola Tinubu approved the postings on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment after more than two years during which the country had recalled all its envoys from foreign missions. This move aims to revitalize Nigeria's international presence and enhance its diplomatic engagements worldwide.
New Ambassadors to France, US, and UK
The new appointments include three distinguished individuals: Colonel Lateef Are as the ambassador-designate to the United States, Ambassador Ayodele Oke to France, and Ambassador Amin Dalhatu to the United Kingdom. These postings come as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its bilateral relationships with key Western nations, particularly amid ongoing global security and economic discussions.
Notably, Colonel Lateef Are's assignment to Washington has garnered considerable attention due to his extensive background in military intelligence and national security. His appointment is viewed as a strategic choice, reflecting Nigeria's focus on bolstering its diplomatic efforts in areas critical to national interests.
Background of Ambassador-Designate Lateef Are
Colonel Lateef Are, hailing from Ogun State, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in December 1974 from the Nigerian Defence Academy as part of Regular Course 12, graduating among the top ten student officers. His early career saw him deployed to the Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps, where he honed his skills alongside notable peers such as General Owoye Andrew Azazi, Colonel Sambo Dasuki, and Admiral Ganiyu Adekeye.
Beyond his military training, Are has an impressive academic record. He graduated with a First Class Honours degree in Psychology from the University of Ibadan in 1980, earning multiple awards including the University Senate Prize. He further enhanced his credentials with a master's degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos in 1987, equipping him with the knowledge necessary for high-level diplomatic engagements.
Career in National Security and Controversies
Are's career includes significant roles in Nigeria's security apparatus. He worked closely with General Aliyu Gusau at the Directorate of Military Intelligence and was recommended by Gusau to President Olusegun Obasanjo, who appointed him as Director-General of the State Security Service in 1999. This appointment sparked public interest, with some reports suggesting his Owu ties with Obasanjo may have played a role.
In April 2010, President Goodluck Jonathan appointed Are as Deputy National Security Adviser. Following Gusau's resignation, Are briefly served as Acting National Security Adviser before being relieved of the position in favor of General Owoye Andrew Azazi. After leaving office, Are faced controversy in 2015 over a dispute with the State Security Service regarding his Ikoyi residence, which led to legal challenges and a court order for his reinstatement.
Diplomatic Context and Nigeria-US Relations
Are's posting occurs at a time when Nigeria-US relations are under heightened scrutiny, particularly concerning security challenges in Nigeria. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria's diplomatic presence in Washington, facilitating more robust discussions on mutual interests and collaborative efforts.
This development follows President Tinubu's decision in September 2023 to recall all ambassadors from Nigeria's 109 foreign missions, which had left many offices managed by chargés d'affaires with limited authority. The new postings aim to restore full diplomatic representation and enhance Nigeria's global standing.
Additional Diplomatic Adjustments
In related news, President Tinubu has reportedly withdrawn the posting of Usman Isa Dakingari Suleiman, the former governor of Kebbi state, as ambassador-designate to Turkey. This adjustment underscores the ongoing refinements in Nigeria's diplomatic strategy as it seeks to optimize its international engagements.
Overall, the appointment of Colonel Lateef Are and his counterparts signals Nigeria's commitment to proactive diplomacy and strengthened ties with key global partners, setting the stage for enhanced cooperation in the years ahead.
