President Bola Tinubu has taken a significant step in shaping Nigeria's foreign policy by nominating his first set of non-career ambassadors since assuming office in May 2023. The nominations target three crucial Western nations: the United States, the United Kingdom, and France.
Meet the Nominees
The presidential nominations feature three distinguished individuals with impressive backgrounds in intelligence, security, and diplomacy. According to a statement released by presidential media aide Bayo Onanuga, the nominees are Ambassador Ayodele Oke, Retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are, and Ambassador Amin Mohammed Dalhatu.
Ambassador Amin Mohammed Dalhatu brings previous diplomatic experience to the table, having served as Nigeria's ambassador to South Korea during President Muhammadu Buhari's administration. His initial appointment dates back to 2016, providing him with substantial experience in international relations.
Ambassador Ayodele Oke, an alumnus of Emory University in Atlanta, boasts an impressive security background. He previously served as Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and has diplomatic experience from his time as Nigeria's ambassador to the Secretariat of the Commonwealth Nations in London.
Security Expertise Among Nominees
Retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are adds significant security credentials to the diplomatic team. His career includes serving as Director General of the State Security Service (SSS) from 1999 to 2007 and acting as National Security Adviser in 2010. His military intelligence background from the Directorate of Military Intelligence and academic excellence—graduating with First Class Honours in Psychology from the University of Ibadan in 1980—makes him a notable appointment.
These nominations represent President Tinubu's first ambassadorial selections since his inauguration on May 29, 2023. The timing indicates the administration's priority to strengthen Nigeria's diplomatic presence in key Western nations early in his tenure.
Next Steps in the Process
The nomination list has been formally submitted to the Senate for the mandatory screening process. Bayo Onanuga confirmed that the final postings will be determined following successful Senate screening and confirmation.
This development marks a crucial phase in Nigeria's diplomatic engagements under the new administration. The selection of non-career ambassadors with strong security and intelligence backgrounds suggests a strategic approach to international relations that prioritizes national security interests alongside traditional diplomacy.
The Senate screening process will be closely watched, as these appointments could significantly influence Nigeria's relationships with three of its most important international partners during President Tinubu's administration.
