Civil Society Groups Applaud Presidential Ambassador Nominations
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups (CCSG) has expressed strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's recent nomination of two prominent Nigerians for ambassadorial roles. In a statement released in Kaduna on Saturday, November 30, 2025, the group described the selection of Senator Jimoh Ibrahim and former INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu as strategic and merit-based appointments that will benefit Nigeria's international relations.
Strategic Appointments for National Development
Lawal Akorede, the Convener of CCSG, stated that President Tinubu's choices demonstrate what he called "a blend of intellect, experience and patriotism." The coalition emphasized that both nominees have made substantial contributions to Nigeria's progress across multiple sectors including economic development, security enhancement, governance reforms, and social advancement.
Regarding Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, the coalition highlighted his extensive investments in critical sectors that have created numerous employment opportunities and strengthened Nigeria's economic competitiveness. His business interests span aviation, oil and gas, insurance, banking, media, hospitality and education, creating a diverse portfolio that CCSG believes will benefit Nigeria's diplomatic efforts.
Distinguished Qualifications and Global Potential
The group pointed to Ibrahim's impressive academic background, which includes studies at world-renowned institutions like Harvard, Oxford, and Cambridge. His active participation in national debates concerning fiscal reforms, counter-insurgency operations, and public-sector efficiency has demonstrated what CCSG described as "uncommon patriotism" during his service in the 10th Senate.
Beyond domestic achievements, CCSG believes Ibrahim's multi-sector expertise will help Nigeria secure significant global trade opportunities. His background is expected to strengthen negotiations on bilateral trade agreements, attract high-value foreign direct investments, and open new international markets for Nigerian exports, particularly in agriculture, solid minerals, and the creative economy.
The coalition also noted that Ibrahim's experience in aviation and maritime sectors could facilitate the expansion of international cargo corridors, deepen port partnerships, and enhance Nigeria's standing in global energy markets.
Recognizing Electoral Management Excellence
Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), received commendation for what CCSG characterized as disciplined, patriotic, and stabilizing service to the nation. The coalition highlighted Yakubu's contributions to administration, electoral management, peacebuilding, grassroots mobilization, and intergovernmental coordination, noting that these efforts helped strengthen national cohesion and democratic stability.
According to CCSG, Yakubu's reputation for institutional discipline will boost international confidence in Nigeria's governance systems—a crucial factor in attracting foreign investment. His extensive experience could also help secure new partnerships in public-sector digitization, electoral technology, peacebuilding, and global security cooperation.
Strengthening Nigeria's Global Position
The coalition expressed confidence that both nominees possess the competence and capacity required to advance Nigeria's economic diplomacy, deepen foreign partnerships, and strengthen the country's international profile. Their combined strengths are expected to support technology exchange, educational collaboration, diaspora-driven investment, and the expansion of Nigeria's presence on international development platforms.
CCSG emphasized that these appointments represent strategic investments in Nigeria's future rather than political favors. The group stated that President Tinubu has demonstrated that competence, loyalty, and capacity guide his selection of national representatives.
The coalition urged all Nigerians to support the ambassadorial nominees, expressing optimism that they would project the country positively on the global stage, attract valuable international partnerships, and strengthen Nigeria's economic and security interests worldwide.
