President Tinubu's Ambassador Nominations Stir National Debate
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's recently released list of ambassadorial nominees has generated significant controversy across Nigeria. The announcement of 15 career and 17 non-career ambassadors, made after a two-year diplomatic vacuum in Nigeria's foreign missions, has been met with mixed reactions from various groups and individuals.
Widespread Criticism Over Nominees' Qualifications
Several prominent voices have expressed disappointment with the quality of individuals selected for these crucial diplomatic positions. Emmanuel Onwubiko, National Coordinator of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), described the list as unfortunate and disgraceful. He emphasized that the appointments appear to lack consideration for merit, competencies, or the special negotiation skills required to represent Nigeria effectively on the global stage.
Onwubiko particularly criticized the inclusion of what he called internally displaced politicians, sycophants, and ethically challenged persons. He specifically mentioned Femi Fani-Kayode and Reno Omokri as being compensated for their political support during the 2023 elections, alleging they were rewarded for attacking Peter Obi and spreading misinformation.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) joined the criticism, labeling the list as a settlement of political IOUs. The party expressed particular concern about the nomination of Prof Mahmud Yakubu, the immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). ADC's National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, noted that this appointment could undermine INEC's credibility, especially coming only two years after Yakubu supervised the election that brought Tinubu into office.
Regional Imbalance and Federal Character Concerns
The geographical distribution of appointments has also raised eyebrows, with many questioning whether the federal character principle has been respected. Jamilu Charanchi, National Coordinator of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), highlighted what he called a troubling regional imbalance.
According to Charanchi's analysis, the South-West region secured an overwhelming 11 slots, while the North-West, North-East, and North-Central regions received five each. The South-East and South-South regions obtained only three slots each. This distribution, he argued, makes a mockery of the federal character principle and suggests that national appointments are becoming tools of political patronage rather than instruments of balanced national representation.
Former Zonal Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-West, Ayo Fadaka, questioned how individuals like Omokri and Fani-Kayode could effectively defend Nigeria's interests without compromising them. He emphasized that Nigeria deserves quality representation at all levels, particularly in foreign missions.
Support and Praise for Selected Nominees
Despite the criticism, some voices have emerged in support of the President's choices. Former Senate Leader, Teslim Folarin, hailed the list and specifically congratulated former First Lady of Oyo State, Dr (Mrs) Florence Ajimobi, on her nomination. Folarin described her appointment as a well-deserved national recognition and testament to her exceptional capacity, character, and intellect.
The Security Committee of Yoruba Leaders of Thought also praised Tinubu for nominating former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ayo Oke, as ambassador-designate. The committee's Convener, Maj-Gen Dayo Olukoju (rtd), stated that this nomination reflects the President's commitment to identifying Nigerians of sterling qualities, proven capacity, and unquestionable integrity to drive the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Funding Challenges and Diplomatic Concerns
Beyond the controversy surrounding individual appointments, many have raised concerns about the ongoing funding challenges facing Nigeria's foreign missions. Currently, some officials in foreign missions are owed allowances, while other essential expenses, including office rent, remain unresolved.
A retired diplomat and former Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ogbole Ode, had previously warned that international interface remains imperative in a globalized world. He emphasized that governments must ensure adequate funding for diplomatic exchanges and missions to avoid embarrassment on the international stage.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a strong stance against the list, describing the selection as scandalous and reprehensible. In a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong, the party called on President Tinubu to withdraw the list and present new nominees who possess stellar democratic credentials and high moral standing capable of projecting Nigeria positively internationally.
As the debate continues, all eyes are on the Senate, which now bears the responsibility of conducting thorough screening of each nominee to ensure they truly represent Nigeria's interests abroad.
